LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. 



Shelf^ 



UNITED STATES OF AMEEIOA. 



VIOLETS : 



OR 



JASPER LUGKIN6S, 



THE 



KANUCK LANDLOED 



AND 



CALIPORHIA OtJilLDMEB.. 



A TRAGI-COMEDY IN FOUR /rC7"5.0FC»>^ 

SEP 12 1884 

ABEL YATES', - - AUTHOR. 



'^-"^ 



v.^/.y^^6v^t^r; 



COPYRIGHT 18S4, BV ABEL FATES. 
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 



1>^ 



TMP92-007614 



-CAST OF CHARACTERS, 



^ 



NELLIE, Orphan and Violet Girl 

RUTH Widow 

ELIZA, Niece of Ruth 

RACHAEL Joe's Wife 

ALONZO, ^^l^^i^ 

JACK, -'• Gambler 

TQ£ From Jarsey 

MERRILL, Wells Fargo's Bank Agent 

KIT WELCH, At the Willows 

KENTUCK & HOOSIER, At Cherokee Ravine 

JASPER Kanuck Landlord & California Gardener 



\ 



VIOLETS, 



OR 



kpef Luckiogs, the Kanuck Laodlofd and California Gafdener, 



ACT I.— SCENE. 

Office appearing room in Temperance Hotel, named Ruth's House, 

situated in a Mining Camp called in early day, Greenwood 

Valley, California, 

{Enter Ruth and Eliza.) 

Eli. — He seems a stranger ; and aunt, what could he mean when 
he gave you such a penetrating gaze and said in a low tone, "Hush !" 
I fancied I saw you nod assent, and I certainly thought you recog- 
nized him. 

Ruth. — 'Eliza, will you promise to keep a secret '? 

EU. — Yes, aunt; but what makes you so pale ? 

Ru. — Listen, Eliza. I believe that man was robbed once by 
Alonzo. Don'c you remember the last time Kit was here, he said he'd 
written a man, and if he turned up Alonzo would remember with sor» 
row hi-s ingratitude, and, if I am not mistaken, that man made the 
first garden on Garden Ranch, that in justice belongs to Nellie, and I 
do believe he is here on that business. 

^//.— Why, aunt, do you think he is the man that wrote the letter 
you hold so sacred ? 

Ru. — Yes, Eliza. But, oh, how changed, except his voice. Don't 
breathe this. 

El. — Don't fear. I only wish he maj^ succeed with the villain and 
get his own. 

Ru. — Yes, the villain. But poor creature, with those three wrongs 
staring him — this man's, Nellie's and ours — what must be the tor- 
ture of his mind, for I hear there is no hope of his getting relief. 
(Alonzo, villahi, doth around neck.) 

Al. — Well, ladies. How is your health ? Any news ? 

Ru. — We are well. - 



a VIOLETS; OR JASPER LUGKINGS, 

JSI. — What encouragement did they give you at the city ? 

Al. — None too good. It looks dark. 

El. — What do they pronounce it, may I ask ? 

Al. — At first a tumor, — now a cancer. 

i&Z.— That is fearful. 

Al. — Yes ; they all unite in pronouncing it beyond cure, and advise 
me to adjust business matters and prepare for the worst. 

El. — You asked if any news. None, only we were on the balcony, 
and a queer looking old man approached us aiid asked the name of 
this village. Aunt said, " Greenwood Valley." We asked him in, as 
he looked jaded and strange. He said, "By and by," and walked off. 

Al. — I may see him. Strangers are rare now to what they were 
in early days. But what is that to me. 

El. — You should not be too disconsolate, for it will not assist you 
in bearing your affliction. 

Al. — Thanks; it's truth. {Looks serious.) 

Enter Jack, the Gambler. 

Jath. — Ho ! Alonzo. You feel bad. I hear you got poor chance. 

Al. — Yes; don't feel any too well, Jack. Any news'? 

Jk. — Well, yes ; a little. We're square, ain't we ? 

AL — Yes, I think so. 

Jk. — All right, tlien. The news is Stockton Ike is dealing Span- 
ish monte for the boys over to Jake's, and Old Sam, from 'Frisco, is 
with him and furnishes the rio. It's open game and likely to be des- 
perate. My stake is too small. I'm likely to fret at placing last stack. 
That <ihecks nerve. Can't do anything with them fellers without good 
stake and nerve. I may fluke, but that's poor chance. If they come 
my way I want to press. If they run for bank I want enough to see 
what it means. Can you do anything for me ? 

Al. —I would rather not. I have concluded to keep my business 
snugger from this on. 

Jk. — What do you mean by that '? 

AL— It means no more lend. 

Jk. —Are you mad, or do you want to quit me ? 

Al. — I don't know what I want, Jack. I'm struggling — 

Jk. — See here : best friends must party so good-bye, Alonzo. 

^Z.-^Good-bye. . * 

Jk.—{Hesitatinrj.) I thought I'd fix things a little better between 
us. You're sick, and maybe a little peevish. I'm well, and ought to 
act well. We've been together through this country a good deal, and 



KANUCK LANDLORD AND CALIFORNIA GARDENER S 

if you want anything of me any time, say so. I shan't profess much 
outside love for you for fear you'd think it from a mercenary motive, 
but I wish you to believe me, Alonzo. I shall always keep an open ear 
wishing for your welfare. Alonzo, you're sick, and it's a hard game, 
but don't forget it's up-and-up — a square deal— no slipping the cut — no 
dealing from the brake — no bluff, and no attempt on the hold -out. 
This being done on truth, you're sure to hear said, "Good hand ; rake. ' 
We've all got the last deal to make, and last hand to show, and for 
safety in game it's imperative to know our man. Extended hand. Exit, 
Enter Joe and Eachael. 

Joe. — How do du ? {Noddin<j, and heing little in advance of Raehaeh) 
We're all the way from Jarsey, my good wife, Rachael, and I We've 
been a long while wandering up and down through valleys and moun- 
tains, hoping to find our girl, Amy, Don't know her, du ye, any of ye? 
{No one ansirers.) Say, who's boss here ? 

Ra. — I keep this place, sir. 

Joe. — Don't know her, du ye "? 

Ru. — No, sir. 

Jo^.— We're tired. May we sit down ? 

Ru. — Certainly ; take seats. 

Joe. — Got anything to drink ? 

Ra. — {Dressed and looks the pattern of meekness.) There, Joseph, 
for mercy sake don't ask. Whenever we get to a new place and can't 
find Amy, he falls with drink. 

Ru. — There is no danger here ; we sell no drink. 
{Enter Merrill, the Banker.) 

Mer. {to Alonzo) -Sir, the Quartz Mining Co., together with our 
Georgetown Branch, are drawing heavily upon us. When you are 
liable to draw, would you grant two days' notice, that I may order 
funds accordingly from the city ? 

Al. — I presume so. {Exit Merrill,) 

Net. — {SuKjing plaintiff stanza outside). Nellie, the orphan, enters, dressed 
and looks the friendless, with Bunch of Violets in hand, steps toward 
Joseph and Rachael, but timidly, on account of Alonzo- s gaze. She says : 

Will you buy my violets ? Only one bit. ^ * ' 

AL {villainous tone) — What a saucy, impudent huzzy, to strangers. 

{Joseph and Rachael say nothing, but are aire stricken.)' ' 

Joe.-^-((?iveg rushing step across stage, looks 'at Nellie, gives a wondering 
gesture and groans.) j 

Ra. — Joseph ! {and he sits down.) 

Enter Jasper, with little bundle.) 



4 VIOLETS; OR JASPER LUCKINGS, 

,j,fs^ — [Walks in, looks upon all,— u-lien sees the villain [very much 
fvjitated] , stepping toward Ruth and Eliza says : Are you tlie women I 
saw on the porch while ago ? 

^L— Yes, sir. ' 

Ja.s.—^Vho keeps this house ? Keep boarders ? Sell rum? 

Ru. (ayitated) — I am the hostess, sir. I entertain travellers, but 
sell no rum. Shall I take your parcel {uiptmj eye and quietly a^fected), 

Jrts.— Wait a minute, [Inuard'strwjyliny). 

Joe. {Runs up to Jasper, touchiny and hunching him) — Saj^, ha'nt got 
any rum here ? I want some too. You give me four bits and I'll go 
and get a flask. We'll have a good time. I'm from Perth Amboy, 
New Jarsey, I am ; I'm good 'un when I get thawed out. Goin' to skin 
the mun. ? [Jasper looks at him and steps a little away). 

Ra. — Joseph! {he goes to Rachael). 

Jas. — What do you call this house ? 

Ru. — Ruth's House. 

Jas. - What's Ruth stand for ? 

Ru. — My name is Ruth, 

Jas,— Didn't I see Ruth House, Greenwood Valley, to rent, furni- 
ture and all, in San Francisco Bulletin / 

Ru. — Yes, sir; this is the iDlace. 

,7^/.s^. —Maybe I'll try and rent it, when I get rested out. What's^ 
your rates for board and room a week ? 

Ru.— From ^5.00 to ^12 00. 

j(,f, — Give me a five-dollar place. There's first week's board, and 
take bundle. 

Nel. [to Jas.) — Please, sir, buy my violets ; I'm faint or I wouldn't 
ask you. Do, x:)lease. {Alonzo hisses and she sits doom). 

Al. — You intimated taking this house;, have you any hotel expe'r- 
ience ? 

Ja.s\— Yes, plenty. 

Al. — What are your principles of management ? 

Jas. — To keep hotel that shall stand criticism. 

Al. —The reason I ask, I own the house. 

Jas. — If I bargain, are you willin'? Now, my name is Jasper Luck- 
ings^ — I'm a Kanuck tavern-keeper by trade. I always make it a pint 
to talk to the owner, and I want jow suited. What du ye say ? 

Al. — That sounds right. 

Jas. — Yes or no? I'm one them fellows. 

.4/.— Yes. 



KANUCK LANDLORD AND CALIFORNIA GARDENER 5 

Jas. — Say, what ails your neck, I see you got a rag on it ? and 
what's your name ? 

AL — My name is Alonzo, and my neck is very sore. 

Jan, — Will you be good enough to let me talk to the girl a minute ? 
{Not waiting answer, turns to Nellie.) Come here, little girl (.S7^^ trips 
quickly to Jasper. Seems anxious to sell from hunger.) 

Nel. — Only one bit ! sir. 

Jas. If I buy 'em, what'll you do with the money ? 

Nel. -{Putting her mouth to his ear.) Buy buns ! I'm faint. 

j,fs. — Buy buns, and hungry! {Gatching from emotion.) There, 
you take that, and I'll take the posies. 

Xf^l^O^j^ ! mercy ! msrcy ! {Chqipnij hinds.) %'l ! (Skipping.) 
Thanks ! Thanks ! 

Jas.— Go and get buns and come right back, quick ; I want to sea 
you. 

.V, /, You bet I'll get buns. I won't be hungry again for a week, 
and the violets will be nice, 'cause I won't have to pick 'em for a week 
to sell. I'll be right back. Oh, what's you're name ? I forgot. 

,/,/.,.._Call me Jasper. [Exit Nellie.) {To Alonzo,) That's your 
girl ; I see how it looks, now. Your sick, and your poor child has to 
sell flowers off your wife's gravo to get food. What a varying world 
of sun.sliiue and cioud ; it must work on your feelings. See here, sir ; I 
hain't none too much money, but I'll split it. You go to a doctor 
and get your neck fixed. Don't go hungry, and take good care of the 
girl, and when the money is gone come to Jasper again, and if I take 
this hous3 you and the girl both come and make it your home. I 
s'pose the reason the rent hain't enough to keep you both is 'cause 
your sick. But never mind that ; you cheer up ; see things hopeful, 
and you'll be better off than you think for. 

AL — {Raising bowed head.) Thanks, sir, for your kind offer. It 
gives me botli pain and pleasure. But you are mistaken. The girl is 
not mine neicher am I void of money, and as regards getting my neck 
fixed, as you call it, it's impossible. Nevertheless your reasoning and 
kindness has caught, and liable to be of more value to me than you 
anticipated. I hope you may take the place. (Exit.) 

Jo. — Say, he's gone, and I'm glad. Don't you think him gol darn 
mean, the way he acted to that young one ? By gosh, if I'd been half 
tight I'd show'd him what tree 'd make shingles. And it's darned 
queer Rachael and i both spoke at once as the young one tickled over 
bun money, "Don't she act like cur Amy." But it's 'cause we fret, and 



6 VWLETlS; OR JASPEU LUCKING 8, 

we mus'nt du it. But I'll bet a gallon of Jarsey cider I'll lick him j^et. 

I can lick him or anybody that takes his part if I see anj^ more of his 

dirty work. {KnochuKj Jist on table and taking queer Jightimj position.) 

Ra. — Joseph ! {He goes and sits by her.) {Exeunt all but Jas.) 

Enter Merrill, the hanker. 

Mer. — {To Jas.) There has been an injunction upon Wells Fargo, 
respect ng Alonzo's deposits, and I am advised from the head of the 
house in San Francisco to see you to know what to say in case he 
wants to draw. 

Jas. — You are not peddling this around ? And how did you know 
I was the man ? 

Mer.— {From gesture ) You was in office. 

Jas. — I trust you have the two days' notice duly effected. 

Mer. — Yes, sir. 

Jas.— km I correct in understanding he has no papers if assigned 
you would have to honor ? 

Mer. — No, sir. He has no deposit receipts. Our Ledger and his 
memoranda, compared monthly, is the way we do it. 

Jas. — 'Has he deposited iinything since the injunction ? 

Mer. —Yes, sir. 

Jas. — Well, let him draw to the amount of his deposits since the 
injunction. Any amount beyond that, claim the two days' margin he 
granted you and keep me apprised of his movements. • 

Mer. — Certainly, and with all due secresy. 

Jas. — {Slight boic. Absorbed in Meditation.) {Exit Merrill.) 
Enter Nellie. 

Jas. — Got back, have you, already ? Did you spend your money ? 

Nel. — {Chewing.) Not all — I eat a lot 'o buns and coffee — sugar and 
milk in it -oh, so good — it cost two bits. I left six bits for buns when 
1 want 'em. I got one dollar here. I want to give that to a poor old 
woman that washes. You see I sleep with her in the cabin. I know 
she'll be tickled. Are you willin'? 

Jas. — Yes, that's good. Get that box and come and sit down here. 
I want to talk to you. I won't hurt you. You ain't afraid, be j^ou ? 
{aside) Children, tell truth. * 

^y^;, — 'Afraid ! I guess not. Anybody give me two dollars, as you 
did, and as hungry as I was, makes me feel good towards you. I feel 
good towards everybody. I 'spose its cause I eat so much buns. 
{laughing and pushing doun ragged dreus). What makes you look so 
sorry ? You hungry ? 



KANUCK FARMER AND CALIFORNIA GARDENER. 7 
Jas. {shakes head ) — What is your name ? 
NeJ. — Nellie. Sometimes they call me Nel. 
Jas. — What's your father's name, and where does he live ? 
Nel. — William Page. He's dead. Did live on Garden Ranch. 
Jas. — Where is your mother. 

Nel. — Dead, too {droppitKj head and sighirKj). Buried over the brook, 
close by the cabin, under live oak tree. 

Jas. (aside) My God! I knew them both; their hou.se uas a home to iiie, 
before and after I was robbed. I must help their darling. 

Nel. — Oh, I ought to go and water my violets, but I shan't have to 
pick violets for a week ; they'll grow nice. Six bits will keep me in 
buns for a week, and in that week maybe I can sell few buns, then I 
can let violets be mor'n a week. You see, I don't touch the violets 
until I get too hungry sellin' buns. Buns don't sell fast as violets, but 
when violets get short, I'm sure to get hungry. You see, I got to sell 
twelve buns, then eat one. Sometimes sell eleven, then it sticks all 
day; then I water my violets by moonlight, if it shines. Get up early, 
when hungry, and sell violets quick . Folks seem to believe me more when 
I tell 'em I'm hungry, when I got violets than when I got bunt-. 
I 'spose they think I ought to eat the buns when they hain't mine, and 
go on. But when I got violets, and tell 'em where I get 'em they just 
act and talk nice and buy 'em. I tell you, violets gets buns right smart, 
if there was only more. 

Jas —^\heIe do you get the violets"? 

Nel — On mammy's grave; and it's so queer. Maybe you know? 

Jas. — What's queer •? 

Nel. — Why, you see, the grass on mammy's grave started just a 
little, and when the rains quit I got water from the brook and sprinkled 
it every night and it growed nice. And, don't you believe, one Sunday 
morning, (I don't sell buns or violets Sundays, but I go to Sunday 
school on the outside), when I was looking how nice the grave 
was, I seen a tiny blossom, and I was careful of it, and it spread all 
over mammy's grave and it's now a pretty bed of violets, and it's so 
queer where the seed come from. Can you tell ? 

Jas.— [Affected.) No. 

Nel. — Where do ye think ? Tell me, like a good old man. 

Jas. — Perhaps some kind hand planted it. 

Nel. — 'Twant no ugly hand, and I thought maybe I could sell some 
for bun money, and did, and they stopped a heap of hungry that sell- 
ing buns wouldn't. 



8 VIOLETS; OR JASPER LUCKING S, 

Jus. — {Aside. Heavenly manna.) What did you mean when you 
said you went to Sunday School on the outside ? 

Nel. — Oh, I don't go in now, since, mamma died ; my clothes won't 
let me, but I stand outside and hear all, and run afore they come out ; 
then they can't talk about my ragged clothes — don't hear 'em anyway, 
if they du. 

Jas. — You seemed afaid of Alonzo. What for ? 

Nel. — {Sighing.) I don't know, hardly. He seemed good quite a 
while after mammy died, but one day before the violets growed I was 
so hungry, I only eat. one bun all day, and I remembered he promised 
maromy he'd watch me, so J told him I was faint ; he gave me some 
bread, but it was so hard I had to -dip it in the brook, but it tasted 
good^. That night I dreamed about him and mammy ; I asked if I 
might tell him ; I met him on the trail ; we Vvas alone ; he acted good 
and said yes ; I told part ; he walked off quick and wiped his eyes as 
if the sun hurt 'em, and ever since he seemed queer, just as he did 
before you give me the %2. 

Jits — What was the dream ? 

.Vr/. —Lot me think; I dream so much. Oh ! I was by mammy's 
grave, watering it, and heard her voice ; I looked uj), and there was 
mammy and Alonzo ; mammy was talking to him, smiling, and looked 
pretty, with one hand pinting to me and the other to the sky. Alonzo 
made motion ; ^ went ; he got on his knees and made such loud talk it 
waked me up, and they was both - one, and ever sincG he was so cross, 
but the violets growed and I didn't have to ask him for more bread. 

Jus. - Had you rather sell violets than do anything else ? 

Nel. — I don't know\ I like it if I had lots of violets, "cause I 
wouldn't get so hungry trying to sell buns 

Jan. — How would it do to make a big bed of violets ? 

Nel. — Oh, that wouldn't do, I'm afraid ! 

Ja.s-.— Why? 

Nel. 'Cause, when 1 just say "violets" they act just as they du 
when I say "buns"; then I tell 'em where they grow, then they buy 
'em quick; then they ask me lots 'o things, and act sorry 'cause they 
didn't buy 'em before, so I think they only want grave violets 

J(ts. — Do you like the cabin best for a home '? 

Nel. — I like it 'cause I have nice dreams there. Maybe if had 
a nicer home mammy wouldn't come and kiss me and smooth my hair 
down, and put another blanket on me when I hadn t one, and was 
cold. But I don't know what I'll do, 'cause the woman what sleeps 



KAXUCK LANDLORD AXU CALIFOUXIA (iAHDENKH 9 

with me is going to Georgetown to live, and I can't stay alone If I 
only had soine one till I went to sleep. 

Jas. — You are getting most big enough to work out. 

NeJ. — Yes, sir; but I hate to go fur, cause I couldn't'be here nights 
to water the violets. The woman that lives on our ranch says, if her 
girl gets married, she'd w^ant me; but I don't want to do that. I was 
there two days and heljDed her wash bed close well as I could, and she 
called me a fool cause I couldn't wring good. I could wash nice, but 
»ext day my wrist was lame and she scolded awfully ; but she give me 
iiice heel of bread to pay. 

Jas -Who owns the ranch now? 

AV/. -I guess 'Louzo. He did. Mammy said it ort to be mine. 

Jrf.s'. — Ho-w would yo\i like to live with Ruth ? 

Net —Oh, she dassent. I think she would, only for that. I don"fc 
want to talk about that now. 

Jus, If 1 take the Ruth House, would you like to come then ? 

Net. Yes, but Alonzo owns it. Mammy and I used to hve in it 
*fore we moved in the cabin. He said we'd go back on the ranch in 
a little while, and mammy belit;ved him, and when he told us the man 
wouldn't leave and we couldn't go, mammy cried most all night. 
She waked me up a good deal crying, hugging and kissing me, and 
she never got well again. 

/«.«.— Have you got any your mammy's old books and papers 
alying round in the cabin. 

.V<7— I've got her old Bible and some papers in it with a string 
tied round it. 

Jijui — Wei!, now, we've had a nice talk, Nellie, and I have found 
out how matters .stand. 

Nel — Yes, sir ; but when you goin' to take the house ? I wish 
you would. I . . v;-:r 

J ax, — I can't say ; perhaps right ofi, and maybe not at all ; but, 
say nothing. 

Nel. — I'll keep still, but I wish you would. (Exit.) 
Enter Ruth 

Bu. -Well, sir, you have been ^ busy talking with others, I have 
hardly had an opportunity to acquit myself as becomes a hostess, but I 
sent your parcel to your room which is No 9, first floor, which I 
tmst will meet your approbation. 

Ja.s.—'So. 9. .\ll right, lady. I have always thought it lucky, by 
accident, to get an odd number, when assigned ^yroom by hotel clerk. 



10 VIOLETS; OR JASPER LUCKIXGS, 

But I trust my odd appearance has not inculcated the odd laj-out — 
excuse oihVity. 

Ru. {(jimnij /tn inquiring <j((ze (ff(l (jritf -stricken simle)—Qmte excus- 
able, sir But, for heaven's sake, speak and tell me, are you Yates, the 
Gardener, or am I dreaming? (Silence, a nwnent.) You said, "Hush," 
on the balcony. I caught the idea, and I call heaven to witness my 
vow of secrecy; but this one question, will you answer, are you the title 
founder of Garden Ranch, in days of yore ? 

Ja.s. ~I saw danger, and said, "Hush." Yon are not dreaming; 
3-0U ^^-ill handle the maid safely. I believe in your secresy, and I prom- 
ise developements as circumstances will QArmt [feelingly extending hand). 

Ru. — Rest assured the maid is safely advised. The villain is sick. 
I know your iDursuit, and may heaven aid you to your own. But re- 
member, he's been cruellj" wrong ever since yours; 

Jas. — I know him. Let's act not; give me what you know ere 
and since his illness. 

Rt(. — I knew him ere his illness to be a smooth-tongued, cool, de- 
liberate, cunning, deceptive, heartless, cowardly, and sometimes weak- 
minded, villain. Insomuch that the maid (my neice), mj^self and 
Nellie, that you must know her parents when livin/, we are all nothing 
but objects of charity from the cruelty of his chicanery. And since 
his illness, np to recently, he seems as if calculating the chances of the 
physicians being mistaken in their verdict of non-cure. Why, sir, 
he promised Mrs. Page, Nellie's mother, that Nellie should not want, 
and it seems he would see her perish with hunger, even after de- 
frauding her parents out of Garden Ranch, that should now belong 
to Nellie in equity, but he has it all lawfully secured. Miner's 
Ranch, that justice (could it be unveiled) would declare to be mine 
and Eliza's, and this house; I like to forget, is Nellie's in justice, but he 
has it and ours safe as his. And as for public opinion, were he to die 
to-morrow, no sigh, I believe, only for his crimes. Just observe his 
maniac cruelties. We thought having Nellie to live with us; he 
smiled, but shook his head, and promised good things for Nellie, but 
never performed. It seems his depriving her of the small, makes 
him feel more safe in greater. ^^ 

t7a&-.— Would it not have been better had you shown more inde- 
pendence in ministering to the wants of Nellie ? 

Ru. — I dared not, fearing his displeasure. He would, very likely, 
put us all uj)on the street. He owns this house and contents. True, 
we have it free of rent, but it's only fearing the vigil, that he does it, 
I have thought. 



KANUCK FARMER AND CALIFORXIA GARDEXER. 11 

Jas. — Were I to take this house and shelter NelUe, as I should, (for 
her parents would either do it for my child,) in your opinion what 
would be the result ? 

Rn. — Heaven only knows. 

Ja^. — If he should die, what faith have you in his making restitu- 
tion ? 

Ru. - Not the least hope, sir. 

Ja-s. — Well, what kind of a man is this Merrill, that represents the 
banking house of Wells Fargo ? 

Ru. — Well, sir, we think him of Stirling principle, in so much, if we 
and he were not so very poor, he would be the husband of Eliza, my 
uiece, inside one hour. They are engaged, and the marriage is mutu- 
ally deferred, fearing his superiors might reasonably think him under- 
taking beyond his financial position. 

Jax. — Have patience with my interrogation. Would it be possible, 
(considering Merrill's poverty, affection and deferred marriage), could 
Alonzo bribe him to disallegiance of trust. Remember, the influences 
mentioned is a powerful combination. 

Ru. — I am confident he would spurn any offer to betray confidence. 
He's extract of true Southern blood. 

Jus. — You might possiblj' misconstrue his meditations since ill. 
He may be listening to true conscience, and not the decision of faculty. 

Rii. — Why does he not do right, then ? 

Jds. — That seems a proper question, but listen and go deeper. 
First conscience, then will, and he maj' be warring within for victory, 
will or not. 

A'/r. -Heaven onl}' knows. And may I ask, have you any hopes of 
retrieving yours ? If you have, waste no time or chance. Any service 
I can render, just say Our is hopelessly gone ; don't let it's influence 
have any effect upon your plot, for I doubt if its strength will admit of 
dilution. 

JaH.—l have hopes in plot for mine, but I must add to plot for 
Nelly and yours. The adding is in part to pay a debt : were I to 
shrink, the villainy would be of darker hue than Alonzo's. 

- Ru.—{Ends of JiiKjers to forehead.) You daze my brain. {Quiet 
for a moment^) In the name of heaven tell me, if you will, upon 
what you base your hopes for us, or what influence induces the attempt, 

Jas, — The influence of what I owe -the departed, and the influence 
of. hoping he may listen if he had a mother For who can forget 
mother's ai)ron- wiped- tear when ministering counsel to her wayv.'ard 
wandering boy ? 



12 VIOLETS; OH JASPER TACKINGS, 

/j'//,— Well, yon are determined then ? 

JuK, — Yes. 

/i:w.— What shall I do? 

e7«^?.s-.— Let me have this place. I act as proprietor, you and Eliza 
housekecip and chambermaid. The bargain said to be equity. The 
rest a secret unless we disagree ; then Alonzo to adjust. Possibly 
the man sees his position, and may let go his Shy lock grasp. Will you 
give me the place, and expand your promise of secresy? Tell not 
even your neice, for there lies an innocent daiiger (from elation) to 
give nie away to her betrothed. 

llu. -The place is yours and your plans shall not be frustrated by 
any disclosures. 

Jds. — Then from this I manage, and if things look a little queer, 
and I in silent soliloquy, will you promise to ask no questions about 
Alonzo. until the climax of failure or success ? 

Ru. — I do projnise, but with no great faith in your success. 

Jos. — Will you promise to indicate indifference and no questions ? 

/♦'// - I do ; and will obey any virtuous order (E.rit.) 
' Joe and Rachael. 

J(h\ -You talk takin' this house. I guess y\l du well. 

Jofi. I've taken it. What makes you think I'd do well ? 

Joe- 'Cause I want a job. Will ye give it ? 

Jan. -I don't know. Will you mind me ? 

Joe. ~ Yes ; why not ? You give me chance and see me act. 

///.».- Act how ■? 

Joe - Jest right every time. Keep weeds and grass down, and do 
chores almost, when they're too little, and I'll be 'round when there's 
tightiu'. I want a good big clip at that feller that's got rag on his 
neck. What do ye say do ye want me ? 

Jas. - 1 couldn't have a worse thing around a public house than a 
fightin' man ; but yon wouldn't hurt anything, for I'm inclined to think 
you a coward. 

Joe. - Coward ! Coward ! Coward ! You'd better try me. 

Ja,i. -Well, if you worked for me and was quarrelsome, I'd try ye. 

Joe. -Say, can you fight ? Good ? 

Jas. I've been there little; ain't much of a tighter. 

Joe, - How did ye get yer teeth out '? Fightin' ? 

Jas. 'Twant playing. 

Joe. — One eye is gone ; where's that - fightin' tu ? 

Jus. — Fighting four; I was in the hands of four good men when 
that was gouged out. 



KANUCK FARMER AND CALIFORNIA GARDENER. 13 

Joe. — I guess you got licked. 

Jas. — I stayed with thera — I was the last man in the room. 

Joe.— Oh, the Devil. Say, do ye want us both, and I won't fight 
unless you tell me —we'll both stay if ye say so. 

Jas. —Very well ; what are your names. 

Ra. — Hachel and Joseph. 

Joe. —Call me Joe ; it's quicker, 

Jas, — Eachael, you see to the kitchen ; Joe, the wood, water and 
all chores. 

Ra. —Terrible glad for the chance, for maybe you can find out our 
girl, Amy. Will you try, 

Jas. - 1 will endeavor. Where was she at the last ? 

Ra.^—There^ that letter was the last ; she forgot to date it, but the 
postmark was Sacramento. We sold our little ; went all the way from 
Jarsey there; couldn't find her; put her name in the Sacramento 
fJnion ; she must be dead, for she was a great reader. But we can't 
give her up until we find out, dead or alive. Will you help '? Our 
money is all gone ; we have been most everywhere. Say, will you try 
hard ? 

Jas. Yes ; leave the letter with me. I'll do for the best, 

Joe. Boss, you study the letter hard ; don't lose it, and see if ye 
can find out, either dead or alive, and you'll find me a bully Joe, with- 
out fightin'. (Exit Joseph and Raehael) 

Jas. —{To kiin^eJf Looks at letter. My God, is it possible ! Bay- 
ley's P.O. effaced by Sacramento stamp ! It is true, I believe, but I 
, must hush until due time, fearing obstructions to favorable develop- 
ments with the villain. If it is her that sleeps beneath the violets 
o'er the brook ! Hush ! I say. Hush ! Hush ! And what a blessing 
if the orphan gets her own ! Oh hush ! or self- spoiled i)lot. 
Enter KuTH, Eliza, Rachael and Joseph. 

Ru. ' {Jasper's head bowed, absorbed in thoughtful meditation. Arouses) 
What shall I say to Nellie ? She is at the back door, and wants me to 
ask you if she is coming here to live. The old lady that stays with 
her nights in the cabin is all packed waiting for the Georgetown stage. 
{Stage horn blows) and she hates to stay alone. She first asked if you 
had taken the place ; when I said yes she jumped and clapped her 
hands —then said as I have told you. 

Jas.— Call her in. 

Nel. — {Skipping in.) Here I be ! Be I coming? I be, hain't I? 
{Smiling.) She's gone. I heard the stage horn. Oh, say, be I? 

Jas.— {Affected.) Yes, NelHe. Eliza, will you tidy those two bed- 



14 VIOLETS; OR JASPER LUCKLYGS, 

rooms off the parlor next your's and annt's, Grive Nellie the front one 
and the other to Raehael and Joseph. 

Jw. — Raehael, that's boss for the gal, and us too 

Eli, — Shall I make any changes of furniture in her room ? It's 
the best in the house. 

./*'/«. —That's what I want No changes, only of linen thrice a 
week. Just step and do it at once, please. {E.vit Eliza.) Joseph and 
Raehael, go with Nellie and bring all her little wares from the cabin, 
and Nellie, you bring me all old books and papers^ will you, without 
disturbing ? 

Nel.— [Elated.) Yes, sir ; but there ain't much of nothing. [Exit 
Joseph, Raehael and Nellie.) 

Jas. —Ruth, there is a check for all I got, and it's plenty. Go to 
readj'-made store; all of you dress fairly for the occasion, observing 
neatness, forgetting the idea, as you said, of being objects of charity 
her Alonzo. Send Nellie to Sabbath School and Ladies' School, and 
with you to church. 

/»*'/.— Thanks. I will tr^' that warbrobe parallels circumstances. 
But do you not need part of money to attire ? 

./.-/«.— My little bundle is better bo®k than cover. And let me add, 
have all Nellie's mammy's clothing washed, ironed, folded and placed 
in her private draw, for no doubt they will be dear to her as memen- 
toes. {Exeunt all.) 

Curtain. Five nnnuteH. 



ACT II. 

Enter Jack, the Oamhler. 

Jk. {t'O Jas) -The new landlord, I believe. I heard you had taken 
the house and the orphan to live with you. I was glad, with the whole 
village, when we heard Nellie proclaim it, —to everyone she met, even 
to strangers. I guess Alonzo's going to give you a call. I saw him 
coming this way. (Takes a seat.) 

Jas. — All right. 

Enter Alonzo, -quick step. 

Al. [to Jas.)— I heard you took the j)lace. (E.vit Jack). Is that so? 

Jas.— Yes. 

Al. — Upon what terms? Are they for me to know? 

Jrt«.— Equitable t§rms. The rest a secret, unless we disagree; 
then you are to adjust. Exit Al 

Enter Merrill. 

J/cr.— Have you given me all orders, not forgetting anything, for 
the manager keeps i)rompting me to all diligence. 



. KANUCK LANDLORD AND CALIFORNIA GARDENER 15 

Jks. —I think so. Exit Merrill. 

Enter Ruth and Nellie, dressed m ordered. 

Jas. —Well, Nellie; got settled in room? How is it? 

Nel.—Oh, it's so nice; sit rite by winder and see everytliint? 
over the brook and all round, and such a nice bed— so soft. I have to 
get up to the bed now. 'Twas down to the blankets in the cabin ; but 
'tant no trouble. Oh ! here is mammy's old Bible and some papers 
tied up, just as she left it. Exit Nellie. 

Jas. {to Ruth)— ^Yhen you were rehearsing the character of Alouzo, 
you said, "Sometimes weak minded and cowardly." What did you 
mean ? 

Rti. —Well, I have seen him when touching deal, in conversation, 
make a very weak effort in justifying his honesty, and I could see him 
writhe within himself with cowardice, as he had failed to accomplish 
hiding the villain. Oh ! I fairly shudder when I think of your meeting 
him now, as you have taken Nellie. 

Jas. He was in just before you. 

Ru.— Did he ask any questions ? 

Jas. -There's a violation of 3'our promise. 

Ru. -Yes, the first and last. 

Jas. — Then I'll answer. He said nothing of Nellie Just asked if 
I'd taken the place, and terms and went. 

Ru. -Ah! I fear he went to meditate wrong. 

J//.S-. — Well, let that be as it may. At the first meet, if you're 
present, school yourself to indifference. 

Ru. — I shall try. But what shall I say if he confronts me with 
charges of wrong ? 

Jas. —Just say, I manage the Ruth House. {Ruth reads a paper and 

xits.) 

Enter Eliza. 

El. — Sir, I was little excited then. What did you mean about 
changing linen thrice a week ? Now I'll give due attention to order. 

Jas. — My order or wish? Check everything to and from laundry. 
Permanents, change three times a week the bed linen, towels, daily. 
Transients (if any), bed linen every morning; towels, if soiled, every 
meal ; table linen, every meal, for bread and tea or coffee are more 
palatable ujDon a clean cloth, than turkey, fowl and fishes upon a greasy 
map of the universe. 

El. {smilin<j) — True, sir. 

Enter Merrill. He and Eliza sit down and chat to theniselres. 
Enter Joe and Ra.chael. 

Jas. — What now, Joseph and Rachael ? Anything wrong ? 



16 VIOLETS; OR JASPER LUCKING S, 

J06'.— Wrong, wrong. I guess not. Why, it's slick as a whit and 
gettin' slicker. If you'd just see her act 
Jas. — See who act, Joe ? 

Joe. — See who act, Joe? Why, that gal Nellie. Why, she's a 
daisy. Kachael and I's awfully taken up with her. She just pitches 
in and works and helps Rachael, and talks more sense than heaps of 
folks that don't know nothing, and she talks and feels funny and tick- 
led to death 'cause she's got here, and we're tickled, and what a darned 
shame she's been kei^t back so ! By darn, boss, I know you'll du well 
here. You must du well, for the way you've dun for her. We call her 
our child in fun, and she don't seem to hate it, and we told her to call 
us father and mother, but she didn't seem that way. She said she'd 
see you and then see. (Joaeph and Rachael sit down.) 

Nellie, clean and chirpy. Bunch of violets. 
Nel. - ( To .Jasptr.) I thought I bring you some nice violets. I 
don't want to sell 'em to ye ; I want to give 'em ; maybe I can't stay 
here, and have to sell violets agin. 

Ja^. — Why, Nelhe, what makes you say that? 

Nfl.- Josej)h and Rachel called me their child, and said if Alonzo 
said first word agin me stayin' here he'd fix him, Joseph said. Oh, 
say ! they want me to call 'em father and mother ; it seems too much, 
but I like 'em ; what shall I call 'em ? 

Jas. — How would uncle and aunt do ? Uncle Joseph and Aunt 
Rachael sounds good, don't it ? 

Nel. — {Lai(</hin(/.) Yes, it does; and I'l go and sit down and tel 
'em. 

Jas. — See here, Nelly ; now when you see Alonzo, just keep still ; 
see if he speaks first and don't be afraid. (She listens attentively, nods 
assent^ and yoes to Jo.seph and Rachael; sits talks, and laiKjhs.) 

Joe.~ Say, Boss, ain't there 'most too many of us in here at once 
to look well for nice tavern ? Hadn't we better go, some of us ? 

Jas. — {Lawjhiny.) Not at all, Joe. It seems like home. Work all 
done ? No harm in tliis, Joe, can you sing ? I thought I heard you 
humming something kind 0' sweet as you were clij^ping the lawn grass _ 
Joe. — Well, boss, I'll tell ye. Ever since I've been with the 
child, Nellie, its keeps our Amy in my mind, and as I was clipping the 
grass in the yard or lawn, my thoughts seem to run kindy on Amy, as 
though I was a poet, so I let it run, and I believe it's worth keepin', 
and if ever we find her I know she'd like it. 
Jas. -Let's hear it, Joe. 



KANUCK FARMER AND CALIFORNIA GARDENER. 17 

Joe.—lVs short, but it's all I'll sing, so don't ask me agin. If 
you'll promise not to ask me twice, I'll sing, 'cause I'm old, and once 
is all. Don't be mad. 

Jus. — Just once, Joe. 

Joe, -Boss, 'tain't right, is it, 'cause your workin' for folks, and 
it's your work to sing one little song, and do it best you can, to try and 
make him do more ? 

Jtf^, — Well, not overly pleasant But you sing one short song, 
Joe, and that will do. 

Joe. — 

CLOUDS AND SUNSHINE, 

This life is composed 

Of cloud and of sunshine ; 
No one can deny 

The truth I declare. 
But what heart is more clouded 

Than the heart that is mourning 
JFor the dear one that's wandered 

In a strange la-nd so far ? 

But the sunshine of hope, 

With its beautiful azure, 
Borne forth in due time, 

To save from despair. 
Oh, where then's our Amy, 

On earth or in heaven ? 
We'll hope yet to meet her, 

If perchance the afar. 

AloHzo enters and they all rush out hut Jasper. 
^.1/.— Why this sudden departure ? Can you account for this, sir ? 

J as. — I will not attempt, sir. 

.4/,— Why not ? 

Jas. — Prudence forbids. 

Al. -What kind of prudence '? 

Jas. — There's only one kind, and I wish you to exercise that with 
me ; it is my due. 

Al. —True ; but why so sarcastic ? 

Jas. —Now, sir, I will tell you. I wish to have nothing to say or 
do with you, or anyone else, but what seems business or semblance. 
I shall be happy to meet you or anyone upon those conditions, for I 
am too far gone in years to spend time in prelude. 

Al. — I like those ideas, and if I have anything to say, I shall have 
a business motive, and I would like to interrogate you, if you will con- 
sent. It's with motive to my own interest, and it shall not harm you 



J8 VIOLETS ; on JASPER LUCKINGS, 

iu the least. The questions would ai^i^ear simple to many, but, for my 

gratification will you allow them ? 

Jas. — Yes ; I'll allow you to start, but don't be offended if I whistle 
down brakes, wishing brevity. 

Al. — I know you have taken the place, and is it true you have 
taken Nellie Page to live with you ? 

Jas. — Yes. 

Al. — What induced that? 

Jas. — Necessity. 

AL — On whose i^art ? 

Ja.v.-^Both. 

Al. — Explain better, 

Jas. — Can't. 

Al. — Would you, if you could? 

Jas. — Couldn't, if I would. 

Al. — How long is she to stay ? -, 

Jas. — Don't know, 

Al. — How long do you think? 

Jas. — Don't think, 

Al. -* Who pays her board ? 

Jas. — No one yet. 

AL — Who do you expect ? 

Jas. — Don't expect. 

Al. -Who may pa}' it ? 

Jas. — You, if you want to. 

AL— Why should I pay it ? 

Jas. — I didn't say you should I said you might if you wanted to. 

AL — What do you think of this girl, Nellie'? 

Jas. — I think her an orphan, 

^/.— What else? 

Jas. — Nice child ; worthy of food, raiment and schooling, 

AL — Who's going to do all that ? 

Jas. — Someone is liable. 

Joe and Rachael enter. 

Joe. [to AL) — Say, you're the chap that's so mean to the orphan. 
I know ye. 

AL — Easy, old gent. You seem to be angry. 

Joe. — I'm goin' to lick ye. You're sure to get it when I'm little full. 

Jas. — Joe, I'm surprised at you. This man and I were talking. 
You are doing wrong. (Alonzo sits.) 

Ra. — Joseph, come away. {Exit Joseph and Rachael.) 



KAXUCK LANDLORD AND CALIFORNIA G AH DEN Eli 19 
Enter Jack. 

,/A-.- Landlord, what's your rates ? I want board and room 

Jas. —I fear the rates will not please the local. The rates must be 
high in order to sustain management. 

/A-.— Perhaps you object, as I am called a gambler. 

Jas. — Not so, sir. I have catered through life a considerable to 
that class, and found it all I could wish, both in remuneration and 
civility. 

Jk. — Then you are not opposed to gambling ? . 

Jas.— It would be folly to oppose the whole world, for it is but a 
gamble. 

//f.— Then if I don't find fault with rates, will you give me board 
and room ? {Seat.) 

Jas. — Yes, sir. If you approve of rates and discipline. 

Joe. -Now, boss, this don't look square on your part I stood and 
listened. You said you liked gamblers. Now I believe gamblers want 
to get a chance to kill or steal Nellie off, 'cause she ain't got no friends. 

Jas. — No, no, Joe. You go and call her. 
Nellie enters. 

Nel. — Well, sir (running to Jasper). 

Ja.s. — Joseph thinks I want to do you wrong, and that I am talk- 
ing with those gentlemen to give them a chauce to kill or steal you 
away. Do you think we or"ter do wrong ? Tell us what you think, 

NeL — Why, what for ? I never done wrong to any of you And I 
know that $2 you give me didn't hurt me. And these clothes didn't 
hurt me. That nice room up stairs where I can sit and see mammys 
jgrave don't hurt me, and for going to both schools and church, and all 
these, don't hurt. And, Uncle Joseph, you musn't say that; don't 
like a good old man, or I can't call you uncle and feel good, and it 
might send me away and make me hungry, and if I go I got to leave 
these clothes. I want to stay and help Aunt Rachael and go to school' 
maybe by-and-by do some good so's to pay for all these nice things. 
Now, Uncle Joseph, don't talk so any more. Yoil'll make folks mad at 
me. {Quickly turning to Alonzo, his head bowed.) Did you speak to me ? 
I thought you did. 

AL —No, I did not ; but I will. Come here, Nellie. Poor chiln 
that I have wronged. Nellie, will you forgive me ? You dont know 
all the suffering I have caused you, but if I will do right from this will 
you forgive me ? 

Nel. — Yes, sir ; and will you speak, and may I speak to you when 
I see you ? 



20 VIOLETS; OR JASPER LUCKING 8, 

JZ. — Yes, dear child, and more than that. [Turniny to Jasper.) 
And now, sir, you go on in your philanthropy toward Nellie, and as re- 
gards board, clothing and schooling, as you described in our dialogue, 
I am the liable. That dialogue, simple as it was, was a gracious boon 
unto me. I have more to tell you when I see you again, which shall 
not be long. Adieu. [Exit Al.) 

Jot, — Well, Joe, how does that look ? 

Joe, Look ; can't toll. I'll bet it's taffy. 

Jas, — Now, Joe, I want you to apologize to Jack. 

Jb^.— Jack, may I ask your pardon ? 

Jk. (smiling) — Yes, Joe, that's all right. Exit Joe and Nellie. 

Jas. — Jack, Alonzo seems touched. 

Jk —Poor fellow's got to quit. Doc. Sherman says can't sfe.iy long 
and I guess he's going to square things right. • Cost him right smart 
money to square good, and I guess the beauty of tha square will be no 
hypocrite. 

Jas. Jack, did you ever see him act or talk this way before ? 

Jk.-^I am giving it to you right, — he's quittin'. Never see him 
lay down before. I tell you, when Nellie gave her little talk, it melted 
his icy heart, and I'll bet no more frost Exit Jack ami Jas. 
Enter Merrill and Eliza. 

Eli. — Ah, Merrill, why so downcast ? 

Mer. — Eliza, I was thinking the cruelty of fate and stings of pov- 
erty, insomuch I have about concluded to lay my position before the 
manager of our house, explain all and and ask counsel. What do you 
think of it ? 

Eli. (sighing) — As you will, Merrill. 

Mer. ~ I will. Exit Merrill and Eliza. 

Enter Ruth and Jasper. 

Jas. — Well, Madame, the meeting of Alonzo and myself, you so 
much dreaded, has occurred, and it excels ordinary hope, but Nellie, 
perchance, played injured innocence beautiful and effective. 

Ru. — Yes, but Joe says it's but mere pretense. 

Jas. — Well, the only plan, — court patience, step carefully on and 
off the wheel of circumstances, so's not to throw it out of true. 

Ru. — Was Jack, the gambler, asking board and room ? 

Jas. — Yes, but please omit the name gambler, for I'm sure he 
merits more than that title. Besides, speaking of a person when ab- 
sent should be named just as they should be when present. In this 
slight lecture don't be offended. 



KANUCK FARMER AXD CALIFORXIA GARDENER. 21 

Ru. — Too true to be offensive. What I was going to say about 
him, he apphed to us for board and room, but prudence forbid. When 
he gets affected with drink he is silly enough to declare an affection 
for me, and one day I was telling him when sober of his foolish remarks, 
and the poor fellow entertains the idea in sobriety. Hence comes the 
enquiry. 

Jus. — I told him if he approved of my rates and discipline, I should 
be happy to cater to his wants. I th'nk him a man of more than aver- 
age princix^le. 

Ru. [Iciugliing) — Why, sir, do you imagine I scorned a good offer ? 

Jas. — It is not my business to imagine your business, but I would 
like you not to forget or overlook true value. 

Ru. — Quite right, but I fear you are placing too much value to the 
credit of Alonzo's conscience. My opinion coincides with Joe's. 
Nothing but pretensions ; but I shall make no disclosures. But for to 
relieve an anxious and troubled mind, that all the gold that Greenwood 
Valley and all other valleys ever yielded, would fail to give this relief. 
If you had it in your power to relieve the aforementioned, would you 
grant it ? 

Jas. — Yes. 

Ru. — Do you remember that ? {puUiny letter from her bosom). 

{Jasper lookiny at letter and handing it back — then gazing at Ruth in 
silence.) 

Ru, — Do you? Why that silent gaze ? Answer, will you ? 

Jas. — Yes, I will answer the best I can. Ruth, time and circum- 
stances tend to efface memory, and I know of no better way than to 
let the letter answer all questions. And I had rather defer discussing 
this until this patient, trying undertaking with Alonzo, the villain, is 
concluded. I do not know how to carry more burden. And as you 
have an interest in the undertaking, let reason defer this matter. It 
would be better for all. 

Ru. — No, that is not my opinion, and as the subject has been 
broached, I insist upon dis]30sing of it or — 

Jas. — Or what, Ruth ? You promised no frustration. 

Ru. — Nor will I. But Ivit told me you were a widower now, and 
I was hopeful you might listen to my entreaties. 

Jas. —Were I to listen to your entreaties you would certainly be 
doomed, for when you became convinced I merely yielded to your en- 
treaties, and stoical in affection ; too late you would curse the influence 
of listening to entreaty. 



2Q VIOLETS; OR JASPER LVCKIXGS, 

Ru. — All of this is of no avail. I cannot bring myself to reconcile 
iation. I have exercised all within me to no effect. The letter says, 
although not in words, but I hope. 

Jas. — There is nothing worded in the letter that justifies ; it rather 
forbids such frantic — 

Rit. — I presume you charge me with wrong for premature affection 
when I was innocent of your being a married man. Heaven knows it 
is no wrong, and unto heaven I impute it as an inspired infusion. So 
be careful in your charges, for my heart is free from guile. 

Jas.—l do not wish to make charges, but I beseech you to drop 
this, fearing something may occur that you, Eliza, aud poor Nellie may 
not get your own, 

Ru. — What about yours ? 

Jas. — I only wish yours was as safe as mine. Hearing of the vil- 
lain's whereabouts and of his illness, I fixed safety in law to give him 
a chance, then, I took the widows' and orphans' case with no law in 
their favor, or hope, unless obstructions are kept clear. 

Ru. — I do not want or expect the first cent, neither will I allow 
you to draw my mind that way in order to evade the subject that I am 
determined, if possible, with you to conclude, 
Jas. — Be brief, and let reason rule, 
Ru. — Do you blame me ? 
Jas. - Only for self-delusion. 
Ru.—Hheu whj^ trifle with my affections? 
Jag. — ^I do not. 

Ru. — Then give me the reason why I am unwcrthy of you. 
Jas. — For heaven's sake listen. You misconceive and I am forced 
to seK -humiliation. Just look and see yourself wedded to a man far 
your senior in appearance, in a very short time he sitting around in the 
way; from infirmity a poor, helpless old creature, aud you his wife. 
Now Usten — deprived of society, subject to calumny and gossip, and 
still more subject to curse the day I listened to your entreaties. Thus 
you see it is not in you the unworthy rests but in me. 
Ru. — ^Your argument says misfortune is mine- 

Jas. — But, hsten. I become a participant, sharing, and the more 
patiently you endure, the more my condemnation, for sorry you must 
be and liable to curse, I say again, the hstening to entreaty. So. 
Ruth, awake from this long, delusive dream. Thank heaven for your 
well sustaiued Dianna. Look upon me.only as an elder brother; and 
the more you look, the more you'll see. 



KANUCK LANDLORD AND CALIFORNIA GARDENER 23 

Ru. {countenance In speaking conviction) — Will you promise not to 
marry, for I can only see you as you were. 

Jus. — No. But I will promise this. If I should ever intimate or 
show inclination to wedlock, that reason would not give consent, I will 
listen to your reasonable admonishings and deem it a sisterly favor. 

Ru. — Were I. to meditate matrimony with another, would you feel 
an interest ? 

Jas. — Yes, a heartfelt interest, wishing you might find due reciprc- 
cation of affection, for without, it's a bitter cup to sip. 

Enter Merrill. 

Mer. — A telegram from our manager, asking your opinion of 
Alonzo's manifestations. What will be the reply, sir ? 

Jas. — Symptoms of favorable symptoms- Exit Merrill, hoiving. 
Enter Joe and Rachael. 

Ru. — If Jack wants board, don't refuse him on my account. {Jaa- 
per smiling ami nodding and shaking heud.) Exit Ruth, 

Ra. — I thought we might ask if you had got any encouragement 
to give us about our girl. Don't be angry. Joseph seems to think 
there is no hope here, and if it was not for the little comfort that Nellie 
affords us, we would almost think we had better move on to some 
other place. Not from any unkinduess of anyone about the place, but 
./oseph seems so uneasy I scarce know what to do. 

Joe. — Yes, boss, I'm 'fraid I'll have to take a little O B Joyful, if it 
does give me headache, 'Cans it seems no use hoping to find her. 
What do you think ? 

Jay. — Well, I will say this. I do believe you would be doing wrong 
to go away, for, although I say nothing, there is no one in this country 
that can have a better chance or is more determined to find your 
daughter, dead or alive, than I, and if I should have to give up, I will 
tell you, and then you can have your choice to stay here or wander. 
And, Joseph, I want you to promise me you won't drink, for it will 
confuse our place, mar Nellie's affection for you, be sorrowful for Rach- 
ael and will rack your brain ; and, believe me, I will leave no stone 
unturned in trying to find your lost one. 

/?'/.— Now, Josex^h, that's nice. We have done wrong; let's cheer 
up and 1)0 content 

Joe. — All right, boss, we will, and I won't touch the darned stuff. 
I'm glad you told me that way. Ex. Joe and Rachad . 
Enter Merrill and Jack 



24 VIOLETS; OR JASPER LUCKING t^, 

Jk — Would you be offended, landlord, if I offer to pay half of 
Nellie's board? 

Mer. — And I vv^ill deem it a favor if yon will allow me to pay the 
other half. 

Jas. — Gentlemen, why would you think it a favor ? 

Jk. — I think it my duty. 

J/t'y.— Those are my sentiments. 

Jufi — A noble reason, boys, and as you wish an answer, do not 
charge me with wrong as I decline, but at some future period I hope 
to be able to exx^lain satisfactorily the reason. 

Mt)\ I think I see the reason, and it is just. Poor Nellie was 
struggling with want ; we let her go unheeded, partly from carelessness 
and fearing Alonzo, and you have courage to play the philanthropist, 
and you don't wish another to meddle your part, and you are right. 

Jk. — O. K. landlord. But don't be afraid to ask Jack for a scad as 
long as I have it. I've got a mule load now. I touched Ike and Old 
Sam's Si)anish monte biz right smart. Let me tell you something, 
landlord. I've been in this country ever since '49 ; I've went broke a 
heap ; win cords of money for myself and Alonzo ; he kep' his -mine 
blowed in. Now I got two things at once that always kep' apart, that 
is money and quit. Now I play quit, game and drink, sure. 

Jas. — You got the best of bank, did you '? 

Jk. —You bet. $7,000, and d^n't owe a cent. 

Jus. — That's nice turn now-days. 

Jk. — Very good, and what makes it a daisy 'twas a fluke. Old 
Sam 'sposed 'Lonzo's standin' in, but 'Lonzo's done. I had a little, 
$340; it's all I had in the world. I stood around, took up my belt 
couple holes, made 'em skip the brace, and, sir, I pitched in ; they come 
my way (they sweat) ; I pressed, still they run for me; I crowded 
the mourners, and they closed the game, and it panned out as I told 
you. But I tell you they make a devish kick when they found out 
what chances they took agin so little money. Biggest win I ever made 
on so small a stake, but I nearly beat it once in Coloma. In '52 I was 
worryin' agin bank ; Alonzo was in and stood by ; we dropped heavy ; 
Alonzo weakened, and I was busted. The dealer gave me dlO in checks 
for my Kansas toothpick ; game only run an hour and a quarter ; I 
cleaned up $015. I was always pleased with my nerve in losing -any 
fool can stand winning. But I'm done now, and here goes to be saving. 
Did you ever gamble, landlord ? 

J(is. — Yes, I tried it, some ; had to quit, fearing its fascinations. 



KAXUCK FARMER AND CALIFORNIA GARDENER. 25 

Jk. Quit easy? 

Jas. — No ; but after I struck the right plan, no trouble. 
Jh. How's that. What's the right plan ? 

Jas. - Quit good, and stay quit. 

Jk. -That's it, and I'll do it to a whack. {Exit.) 
Enter Alonzo. 

Al.— To Jas. ■ Well, landlord, I thought I'd give you a call. The 
last time I went away feeling better. ^ Do you have good health ? 

Jai. — Remarkably good, sir. 

Al.—l wish I could say that. 

Jas.—YLovf is your neck, sir? 

^4Z— No pain scarcely, only of mind, and that seems little recon- 
ciled. I think I fret too much. I must try and cultivate philosophy. 

Jas. — Yes, mankind is more inclined ito murmur than to submit 
peacefully. 

Al. - Unto whom are you alluding? 

Jas. — I am more inclined to fret at my lot than to consider how 
much worse I might be than I really am. (Such is human frailty.) 

Al. — Mary I ask you the cause of your varying so much at times in 
your style of language ? 

Jas. — What, in meaning or words ? 

Al — In words. 

Jas. — No, I can't tell the reason. Don't make any difference, 
does it? 

Al.—l don't know that it does, but nice language is sweet to the 
ear. 

Jas. — May be honey to the ear but gall to the brain. 

AL — Where were you educated in youth ? 

Jas.—Ltog school house and at home by firelight. 

Al. — Are you well educated? 

Jas. — I don't think so. 

^Z.— Why ? 

Jas. — Because there are some ideas advanced by the great and 
learned that the old school house says no. 

AL — I don't mean general reasoning of the day. What was your 
principal study or greatest fancy ? 

Jas. — Most pleasing through life is to admire the truth and beauties 
of proportion, for as we give proportionately we'll receive. 

Al. — When and how are we to know to invest? 

Jas. — Plenty of chances to do unto others as we'd have thein do 
unto us. 



S6 VIOLETS; OR JASPER LUC KINGS, 

Al. — Do you profess to do all this ? 

j^ig — It would be a very empty profession, I fear 

Al. — How do you distinguish right from wrong ? 

ja^, —There is only one way for all - true conscience. 

Al. — Please tell what you think of true and untrue conscience, and 
how they are to be known ; in full, and all pertaining thereto, will 
you? 

Jas.—^Ho ; ain't got time here. 

Al. —Well, condense, and give the distinguish. 

jas. — Free conscience, when rules, known by truth ; the other, 
known at a glance, being self-made. This has been taught for ages. 

Al. — Ah! and how poorly remembered. It is truth ; I was taught 
this in my youth. {Bows head and acts the penitent Exit Jasper.) 

Enter Ruth. 

Ru. — How do you do, sir ? 

Al. (raising head) — No just reason to complain, only an occasional 
twinge in my neck. How does the new landlord get on ? 

i?M.— He seenis attentive and remains in the office right stead5^ 
I think him strict on discipline, and that from close study and fine 
drawn lines. 

Al. — Then you really think him a hotel man ? 

Ru.- Yes, sir f I thank him that, for in five minuies' dictating 
he outstripped my knowledge, and it only seemed preface to a 
volume. But I think all of us as help will have to mind our individual 
cues, for his mere walking through the apartments in silence seems to 
declare time and i)lace, imperatively. 

Al. — In all my life I don't know that I ever came in contact with 
such a specimen of humanity. I have been questioning him to my ut- 
most ; his answers are queer, but right. I suppose you don't know his 
financial position ? 

Ru. — No, that would be quite out of place for me to ask him. But 
if you should, and he tells you, would it be asking of you too much to 
tell me, for I find him such that I have promised myself to avoid 
questions ? 

Al. — The next interview I shall endeavor to ascertain, and if suc- 
cessful I will inform you, but I think him a person not to worship 
money. Nellie is living with him and I am glad of that. This may 
reasonably surprise you, and as we are talking it gives me an opportu- 
nity, Ruth, to ask if the injured feelings you entertain towards me are 
of such a character that cannot be repaired ? 



KAXUCK LANDLORD AND CALIFORNIA GARDENER 27 

Ru. They are repairable, but, Alonzo, do not be offended when I 
tell you, I do not wish, if repairs are being made, that my brain should 
feel the thud of hammer, or heart lacerated afresh with harsh sawings 
of the repairer. Do you understand me ? {ivith eniph/si.'i.) 

AI.—I do. {Exit Ruth. To himself.) Ah, I see; she wants her 
wrongs repaired without ceremony, that her sorrows may not be re- 
newed. My restitutions must be through the hands of another— the 
landlord. {Enter Eliza.) Oh, Eliza ! I aiii glad to see you. It 
couldn't have happened better. 

EI. — You look brighter, and I hope you feel more encouraged. 

A I. - Let that be as it may, Eliza. But I feel iike telling you, I 
have done you a great wrong, as well as your aunt, and as it's an am- 
algamation, I would like to know how to act in adjusting, that if pos- 
sible I might enjoy your temporal forgiveness. 

EI. — Well, sir, I would be sorry to hold hardness when penitence 
and restitution existed, and I will leave the matter between you and 
aunt and when you think, think of us as one. {Exit Eliza.) 

Enter JosEPii. 

Jo. — {To Alonzo.) What the devil you doin' here ? You look sick 
enough to skin. Devil's fixin' his knife now to skin ye. He'll do it, 
too. He's boss skinner. You'll find it out, too. You think you're 
smart here, but when he gits holt of ye, you'll quit like a steer. 

Al. — Joe, I beg of you to quit. 

Joe. — Quit ! Why didn't you quit before you begun to do wrong to 
that poor, starving orphing ? Why, when I think how pitiful she looked 
when you made her sit down, and hunger tearing her all to pieces 
{jumping tow trds him, but keeping safe distance) I believe I'll give ye one. 
Put up your fins ; I'm on the plug {dancing round and striking out into 
vacuum). Take ye by the head, — wring that darned sore neck of 
yours. Make it ache like a stun bruise. {Alonzo appears melaneholg 
and calm, but not frightened at Joe, — only exemplifying inward sorrow). 
Jasper enters. Joe standing like Jight. 

Jas. {catching Joe by arm) — What do you mean, sir ? 

Joe.—l mean, if I had little in me, I could lick him or anybody 'd 
take his part. 

Jas.—T\\ take his part ; and I guess you won't want more than one 
Kanuck racket, Joe. 

Joe. — Kanuck ! What's that "? — Knuckles ? — Steel knuckles ? 
That's enough ; I guess Rachael wants me {bespeaking cowardice) Ex. 
Joe, quick. Enter Nellie. 

Nel. — Here is some violets for both of you {splitting bunch and giv- 



28 VIOLETS; OR JASPER LUCKING S, 

iii'j to Alonzo andJaspcr. Alonzo receives feeliivjhj. She says to Alan zo :) 
Keep them wet, and tell me if they wilt, and I'll give you more. I 
have lots of violets now. 

Al. {botcing assent) — Groing to school now, Nellie, are you ? 

Nel. — Yes, sir. 

A. I -What do you study ? 

Xf>l — Kindy learnin' over what I forgot, that mammy learned me ; 
catechism and some more lessons. I begin to write nice. Miss Farns- 
worth, the teacher, says, and I'm studying the language of flowers. 
Next Monday I'll be picked up so I'll go into class ; then I'll be glad. 
Good by, sir. Exit Nellie. 

Al. — Landlord, I would like the privilege of asking you a few more 
questions. They are upon your own matters, apparently, and, believe 
me, sir, I feel an interest in you as a stranger, and if you will allow me 
to interrogate you reasonably, I will deem it a favor ; and if perchance I 
o'er step reason's line, check me. 

/(/A.— It's to be square cut, is it ? 

^J/.— Yes, sir. 

Jas. — Go 1 

Al. — You are from Canada, I beheve ? 

Jas. — That's right. 

Al. — Your parentage ? 

Jas. (hesitates) — My father's Irish, from Balamena, county Antrim ; 
mother, from State of New York, Dutchess county, Quaker Hill. 

Al. — Your most important pursuits, and their results ? 

Jas. — Most important pursuits [hesitates) ; building castles in the 
air, all summer. Results (hesitates), — wintering in them. 

Al. — I should conclude you have not made much money, then. 

Jas. — Yes, plenty. 

JZ.— Where is it? 

Jas. — Gone. 

J L— Where? 

Jas. -Where the woodbine twineth. 

Al. — And you came to this c:)uutry to make money? 

Jas. — Yes ; thought I might get it. 

AL — And you thought the hotel business best ? 

Jas. — Thought it best for a starter. 

Al. — You do not think too much of money, I should imagine, 

Jas. — Not enough, sometimes. 

Al. — I wish I had known you better before you took this place. I 



KANUCK FARMER AND CALIFORNIA GARDENER. 29 

have some business I wish done, and I prefer a stranger! Can you 
adjust accounts ? 

/I'/.s-. — Yes, if books kjpt square. 

^^.— If kept lawfully but not equitably, how would you manage, 
sir '^ , 

Jas, — That would be easily managed if I had the fellow around to 
answer questions. 

Al. —Will you sell out here and work for me awhile ? 

t/(r/^.— No, won't sell, but I'll do work if you bring it here. 

Al. — I will pay you well. 

Jas. — The pay is all right, but you see I took this place, thinking 
it for the best, and I am going to stay right here until I see what it 
amounts to, and when I'm convinced it's no good I'll quit it if I have 
to saw wood. Can't you tell me what you want done ? If it's crooked 
don't want any books. You just condense things in your mind, and 
act as though jump accounts. I've done that when things got crooked 
and mixed, and both thought it went slick. You think it over and 
we'll talk it. I'll warrant Joe won't meddle with you any more. Did 
you see him quit when I mentioned Kanuck ? He thought it meant 
steel knuckles. He's coward. 

Al. — Yes, I was amused at his shrinking. But the enmity he man- 
ifests I now approve of, and wer.e he to strike me for my cruelties 
toward Nellie, I should have to receive it as right. 

Jas. — That may all be, but he's silly, and its a question if you are 
just in thinking the animal taunts of man to be encouraged produces 
anything else but a sorrowful hindrance to the beauties of truth. And 
in my judgment there is no worse bane on earth than a vain, self-elect- 
ed judge and his verdicts upon fellow-man. There is no enduring it 
and live but by philosophy, for such is man. 

Al. — Thanks, sir. My neck is not feeling so well, and I just wish 
to say, don't mention our talk. But I have something for you to do in 
preparing for my journey. T will see you again. 

Jm. — You mentioned a journey ; when you going ? 

Al. — Cannot definitely say. I have some business to transact for 
I may not return. {Exit J(i.<iper and Alonzo, violets in hand.) 
Enter Merrill and Eliza, after a stroll. 
Mer. — I feel invigorated from the influence of the stroll, Eliza, you 
hold up hope so beautifully to my sadness. Every interview makes 
you dearer to me. It equals zephyr breezes to a fevered brow, and 
as you say, if they do not give charitable counsel to my submission, we 



30 VIOLETS; OR JASPER LUC KINGS, 

will launch our bark upon Hymen's stream, 'midst the cheering sun- 
shine of Hope, casting off Poverty's fear, feeling fully persuaded where 
there's a just will, will be made a good way. 

Eli. — Bravo, Merrill ! That's the language of a man that is worthy 
of a wife. And may heaven aid me in enhancing connubial felicity. — ■ 
Exit, apart, in silence. CURTAIN. 



ACT III. 

Ruth and Jasper, 

Rut. — Well, sir ; this must be a dream I am undergoing. It is im- 
possible that Alonzo has intimated restitution. Are you aware of that 
and not inform me? If so, are you doing us justice ? 

Jas. — Hark woman ! and hush those dyspeptic questions. Let me 
ask, do you think it possible the brain that is exercised to its utmost 
capacity in trying to loosen the hand that hold servile chains upon the 
helpless and innocent, and that brain had placed a watchful ©ye and 
prayed for semblance of success, and that semblance began to appear, 
in so much that the cruel hand began to relax, do you think the brain 
so dull or the eye so dim as not to greet those indications with dua rec- 
ognition ? No. And, again, would prudence admit of anything but 
patience, secresy and reflective diligence, that hope of design might be 
accomplished ? 

Rut. — I see and acknowledge my inconsistency and violation of 
promise I made you that if j^ou appeared indolent or meditating, to 
ask no questions concerning Alonzo. 

Jas. — I know you can hardly credit the encouraging indications, 
but, for mercy's sake, school yourself. Breathe no thought aloud ; try 
and duplicate unrippled waters. 

Rut. — Why was I so foolish? Exit Ruth. 
Enter Joe and Rachael. 

Rac. — Any word ? Dead or alive ? 

Jas. — Not sufficient to say much, but, for your satisfaction, I be- 
lieve I am on the right track. But I want you to be patient ; if , not 
it would be a hindrance to my pursuits. 

Rac. — We must, and will, and we are thankful for the hope,hain't 
we, Joseph ? 

Joe. —Yes. Say, boss, can I do anything to help ? 

Jas. — Yes. Be civil to Alonzo ; he is ill, and to annoy him is hurt- 
ful many ways; and, Rachael, I wish you to labor with Joseph. This 



KAXUCK LANDLORD AND CALIFOEXIA GARDEXEB 31 

beiug duly done, would not only be doing Alonzo justice, but, I think, 
would assist me in seeing my plot successful. 

Joe. By Gosh, if that's the case, boss, I'll keep out his sight, and 
if he comes in, I'll get ou"^. Will that suit ye ? 

Jas. — Yes ; that will suit. 

Joe.— Say, boss, was you going to fight me, time I was going to 
plug him in the nose ? Darn, you looked as though you'd lick a whole 
tribe of Comanches. I'm going to tell ye, let's not fight ourselves, let's 
fight for one another, and anybody you can't lick, I'll catch his leg and 
flop him under. Then you give him some your knuckles. What is 
that, steel knuckles ? 

Jas. {lnwjliinij) Nonsense, Joe. Kanuck means a manfrom Canada. 

Joe. (nods assent) -Yes. I don't see it that way. Ex. Joe and Ra- 
chael. Enter Jack. 

Jk.— Ho, landlord ! How do you head ? 

Jas. — Due east. Jack. Any news ? 

Jh. — I was just talking Dr. Sherman. Alonzo had asked him if 
there was any possible chance for the Doctor's being mistaken. W^hen 
he told him no, he seemed cool and undisturbed. 

Jas. — That's good sign, Jack. Ex. Jasper. 

Enter Ruth. 

Jh. — Well, mistress, quite a while since I m€t you. Are you well ? 
You'must be, for you look splendid. 

Rut. — (Gourteoushf.) Yes, thanks ; and I am pleased to see you 
looking so hale. The last time T saw you, you looked haggard, and the 
very picture of dissipation, Why, you don't seem the same person. 

JI>. — Well, I'm not the same in many respects. I have taken 
timely rest, due exercise, and abandoned drink. Hence the change. 

Rut.— I am exceedingly glad to hear this. Now, if you would 
abandon the gambling table you are liable to a btight future, but let 
me add, do not quit game from my saying only -it must originate from 
principle to be truly effective. Excuse freedom. 

Jk. Your freedom is relishable. It needs no excuse, for it makes 
avenue to a subject that I hardly knew how to approach. Ruth, you 
know I have intimated ere this that I entertained a fondness for you. 
True, sometimes under the influence of wine, and sometimes half jok- 
ing, I have made those allusions. But now, without wine or joke, and 
in honorable and pure intentions do I make this allusion. Do not 
think I make this from the influence of a surfeited school boy love, but 
as based upon reason. Your answer. 



32 VIOLETS; OR JASPER LUCKING S, 

Rut. — The answer you will not expect as from a timid, palpitating 
heart of a school girl, nor as from one that has not passed life thus far- 
without labyrinth of cloud and sunshine. I admire your candid frank- 
ness ; it merits more than I can give, and the answer must be no. , 

J"A-.— Why, are you engaged? If so, I apologize and withdraw ; 
or is it my gaming ? I have quit that — not from pretence but princi- 
ple. Now will you confide in me sufficient to give the reason of no ? 
But let me say again : Perhaps my financial j)osition is a barrier. If 
so, I have a cash balance on hand, the result of last game, and I never 
made a winnings with so little chagrin ; they were the right men to 
capture ; and if j'ou will not think I am courting you with gold, let me 
tell you, the balance on hand is $7,000, no great amount to boast of. 
but that with your's and Dame Fortune's smiles, judiciously managed 
in business, might yield an abundance ; and again, will you confide and 
let me understand why no ? 

Rut.— I will confide reasonably. Listen 1 I sought an engage- 
ment, but failed from self-delusion. The object sought I cannot exer- 
cise reason sufficient to remove from my mind, but what delusive hopes 
yet surrounds me, but I hope you can exercise more reason toward me 
than I can toward him, and will you abandon ? 

JA\— Yes, pity demands an abandonment. But I certainly think 
you are liable to self -wrong by clinging to an affection when the object 
only yields ingratitude. May I ask his name, and where he is ? Also, 
can I say or do anything, for man can sometimes read man's intentions 
better than women, and with your consent I offer my judgment, but 
it's a poor judgment without evidence on both sides. 

But.— 1 cannot now tell you where he is. 

Jk. —Will you tell me who he is '? 

Rut — Yes; he was called, Canada, the Gardener, long ago. 

Jk What ! On Garden Ranch ? 

Rut.— Yes. 

Jak. — Why, that's the man that Alonzo robbed at Murderer's Bar. 
Kit often spoke of him. I have seen Kit shed tears in telling of the 
Gardener having to go home to his family poor. He was a married 
man, Ruth, and from what Rit said, I thought him honorable. 

Hut. — He was honorable; he treated me as such; never hinted 
affection ; our acquaintance was brief and casual ; I became smitten and 
wrote him. It seems a long, tedious dream, that I cannot awake from. 

Jk. Did he answer your letter, to encourage ? 

Rut. — I doubt if any i)erson could discern encouragement but me, 
and I fear that originates from wish. I think he was at San Francisco, 



KANCCK FARMER AND CALIFORNIA GARDENER. 33 

and, if I am uot mistaken, this landlord is here. Oh, I came too near. 
{ilropjiliKi hedd). 

//'". — Ruth, confide in me I see you need help, and I am certain 
that any offerings as helj) I make shall not have the least tinge of self. 

Rut. -Am I talking to one thiat will abandon all hope of me as con- 
sort, and when I say so, to only be an ordinary acquaintance ? If you 
are such, I want your aid ; if not, from this the ordinary acquaintance. 

Jk. — I abandon, seeing it as it is. Were I not to abandon, I would 
dui^licate you in cherishing delusive hope. Any reasonable aid I can 
render, to gratify, I am at your will. 

Rat. — You are happy to abandon so easily. But had you been 
fascinated at eighteen, not so easy. Please ask the landlord if the 
Gardener has an affection for anyone at home, and thanks for offering 
aid- Let me see how. 

Jh. — Is the letter too sacred to read ? 

iiwY.— I will read; listen. Will you read, please ? (iveahemng). 

Jk. {reading aloud)'. 

Garden Ranch, Tuesday Ev'ng. 
Miss Ruth, — 

Your surprising note, per stage-driver, came duly. 
You ask a reply, which is the least I can do. You ask for pity, which 
I give. You declare an affection, hence the surprise, for I never dream- 
ed you entertained such an idea. I never advanced a sentiment that 
had not virtuous and legitimate semblance, and that as become a mar- 
ried man ; for I have a wife and two children at home, and, let me act 
as I may, my affection for them cannot be exceeded, unless by excelled 
intellect. And you will say with me, I never hinted otherwise. 

With all due respect. The Gardener. 

Well, Mrs., it's a dilemma ; but, with your consent I will question the 
landlord. He seems truth and frankness. 

Rut. — Will you be the same with him ? 

Jk. — Yes, or I would soon be checked. He's detective. Ex. Ruth. 
Enter Jasper. 

Jk. — Landlord, if I understand, you are not meanly secretive. 

Jas. —I should hope not. 

Jk. —I wish to ask you a few questions ; if I intrude, check. 

Jas. — That's fair. Don't strain chance. 

Jk. —Did you see a man at the Bay that christened Garden Ranch? 

Jas. — Yes. 

Jk. — Have you known him long ? 

Jas. — Yes. 

Jk. -Is he liable to visit the mountains ? 

Jas. -Yes. 



.S»i VIOLETS; OR JASPER Li'CKIXGS, 

Jk. - Will he be here ? 

Jan. —Yes. 

j]i^ — Ig there any person in Greenwood Valley he esteems ? 

Jas.—Yes. 

Jk. - More than one ? 

Jas. — Yes. 

Jk. —If I promise due secresy to answers, can I go on ? 

Jas.— Yes. 

Jk. —Are you here upon his business ? 

Ja.s.— Yes. 

JA\— With Alonzo ? 

Jas. — Y''es. 

Jk.— Did Kit Welch write the Gardener ? 

Jas. — Yes. 

Jk. — Do you know that Ruth has a tender regard for the Gardener? 

Jas. — Yes. 

JT:.— Do you think he remembers her ? 

Jas. — Yes. 

Jk. — He was a married man ? 

Jas. — Yes. 

/A:. —Is he a widower now ? 

Jas. — Yes. 

Jk. — Does he intend to remain so ? 

Jas. — Yes. 

Jk. — Has he an affection for any one at home ? 

Jas. —Yes. 

JA;.— Ardent? 

Jas.— Yes. 

Jk. — What is her name ? 

Jas. — Check, you said if you went too far. (E^vit Jack.) 
Enter Joe. 

Joe.— Boss, I want to talk a little. 

Jas — All right, Joe, what is it ? Hurry up. 

Jo^.— What wages you going to give us ? 'Bout time we made a 
bargain, 'cause I guess you, Nellie, Kachael and I's got to run this 
ranch pretty soon, that'll be slim crew. Maybe you don't know what's 
going on. You're cute for one eye, but I tell you're liable to lose 
your housekeeper and chambermaid both. 

Jas. — I guess they won't leave, Joe. 

Joe. — Leave ! What do you take me for ? Don't you 'spose I 
know ? They have got a man picked out, both of 'em ; they are right 
smart on the marry. Rachael says hold my tongue, but I don't, and 
if they quit we ought to have good wages. We can get along without 



KAXUCK LANDLORD AND CALIFOBNlA GAhDENEE 35 

'em. I want to know how much. Come, you told me to hurry up. 
How much '? Quick. ^ 

Jan. — How much do you think woukl be right '? 

Jo'.— S30 if they stay, ^40 if they go 

Jus. — I'll stand that, Joe. 

Joe. - Good enough ; now go if they want to. Say, I guess there's 
a feller wants to buy ye out. Will ye sell ? 

JuK. — Not now, Joe. {Exit Joe.) 

Enter Jack 

Jk. -Landlord, have ye any idea when the Gardener will be here? 

Jus.— He is liable to report himself most any time after the proper 
development of Alonzo. 

Jh. — Have you any objection of me talking to Ruth our dialogue 
about the Gardener ? 

Jds. — No, only don't add or diminish. 

Jk. — Your patience must be tried with Alonzo. Why dont you 
exercise the law, your case is good 1 

Jas. - He is ill, and I am in hopes he will do right without punish- 
ment, in the Gardener's case ; and if he should, he might restore to the 
widow and orphan, that law cannot reach, and I am sure that would 
please the Gardener. Do j'ou remember the Gardener ? 

Jk, — Only what Kit told me. I'll see him, I hope. Exit Jack. 
Enter Kuth. 

Liut. — Circumstances are such that possibly I might ask a holiday. 
It looks as though I might want to go to Sacramento. Have 3^ou any 
objections? 

Jri.s. Not any ; but I wish it would not occur at once. 

Rut — Oh, no ; I shall be able to give jo\x notice sufficient to pre- 
vent any inconvenience, but I must study the time, so as not to be 
absent in busy season, or do you not care to have much business ? 

Jas. — No ; I wq^t no business more than I have. I just merely 
wish this house as a home for us all, hoping it will aid me in my under- 
taking with Alonzo, and this idea please keep secret. 

Rut. —It shall be so. Was Jack talking, and did he mention 
my name ? 

Jas. — Yes ; he mentioned your name when asking if I had any ob- 
jection to his rehearsing to you part of our talk. I said no, and I 
thought I detected an inward satisfaction as I answered some of his 
questions, more especially those that involved the liability of a tender 
intimacy existing between you and the Gardener. 



36 VIOLETS; OR JASPER LUCKIXGS, 

Rut — I suppose you denied that 

J<is. — I thought of you as become a brother and answered. 

Rut. I huagme all, sir [rather frou-niinj]. 

Jds. — Who was tha J gentleman, Huth, that went by on the mustang 
and called at Alonzo's, a little ago ? Did you sea him ? 

Rut. That was Ed. Lovejoy, the tenant of our old ranch. I think 
he is over to pay Alonzo the rent. 

Jus. -I wish you were getting the rent. 

Rut. — I wish Eliza and I had the cash value of the ranch. We 
neither of us wanted to live there after her father died. Enter Eliza. 

Rut. — I was just telling him it never seemed like home on Miner's 
Ranch after father died. 

El. — No ; I like it better here, but for poverty. 

Jas — What is the ranch worth ? 

Rut. — I don't know, after what has happened. I wouldn't live on 
it to have it 

El. — Neither would I. Ex. Ruth and Jasper. Enter Merrill. 

El. — Good news, Merrill; I know by your looks. Tell me; don't 
keej) me in suspense. 

;i/^.;-._Yes, Eliza. Day is dawning, darkness fleeing, sunshine 
coming [handing Eliza letter). Read that 

El. — You read it, Merrill. 

Mer. Yes, Eliza. The manager writes thus : 

Dear Sir,— 

I am happy to say your submission has been duly consider- 
ed, and advise you to do as you wish. Your salary will be reasonably 
advanced. Wishing unmarred fehcity in your important undertaking. 

George, of Wells Fargo, 

Now, Eliza, one month from to-dp^y will witness the result of our 
plitings, as we gathered wild flowers on the banks of the Sacramento. 
Do you remember ? 

El.—l remember, Merrill, and the memory is as fragrant as the 
emission of a bedewed bed of roses. Ex. Merrill ami Eliza, apart. 
(Jasper in offirr) Enter Rachael, Joe and Nellie. 

/^,/t'. — We have all been over the brook watering the violets on 
Nellie's mammy's grave, and while v,^e were there old Mrs. Farnsworth 
came to us and said she was so glad Nellie had so good a home. It 
seemed her mammy's greatest trouble, fearing Nelhe would suffer, but 
said she committed her child to the care of Him that was a Father to 
the fatherless, and died. 

Jue.—Boas, I tell you when that woman, the school-teacher's 
mother, was talking about NeUie and her mammy, and how Alonzo 



KANUCK FARMER AND CALIFORNIA GARDENER. 37 

punished them without a reason, it made me have cold chills, and I 
never want to hear so mucii agin. {Exit Joe, wiping his eyes.) 

Rac, {To Jfis., melancJioly.) — I thought I would ask you if any tid" 
ings of our Amy. 

Jas. — Yes, Rachael, and when I'm telling, you will exercise wisdom 
and school yourself into due submission to the will of Providence, for 
she is dead. 

Rae. {With bowed head and apron to her eyes, weejnny.) 

Jas. (Aside). — Rachael weeping for her children. 

Nel. (Wiping her eyes uith her apron.) 

Jas. {Boned head and tips of left hand Jin yers to forehead.) 

Rae. — And is it thus I {One eye out front apron, sohhiny.) Did she 
leave any children? Oh, if I could only find any of her children! 
What a comfort ! {Starting (}ff and stojipiny.) Is there any children? 
Do tell me that I may tell Joseph. 

Jas, —Yes, and the number I hope soon to be able to tell you. {Ejci( 
Raehael.) 

Nel. — Poor old woman, I hope she will find some of Amy's chil- 
dren. I wonder where she is buried, and maybe the children's hungry. 
When will you find out more ? 

Jas. — Just as soon as I postsibly can, Nellie, but I must wait for things 
to happen, or we might all be sorry. So when you are talking to Joseph 
and Rachael try and comfort them, and tell them when I get things 
certain I will manage so they shall go and see Amy's grave. 

Nel, — Let me go with them and I will talce lots of violets and set 
out on their girl's grave, and perhaps they will grow pretty as 
they did on mammy's. I'll go and talk them best I can. Oh, say ; 
I wonder which hurts most — mammy losing her girl, or girl losing her 
mammy ? 

Jas. {Head honed.) — Either is hard, Nellie. {Exeunt.) 
CURTAIN. 



ACT IV. 

{Enter Jack and Jasper.) 

Jli. {to Jasper), -Don't think me too inquisitive ; but has this man 
Alonzo intimated anything to you as though he was going to leave 
Greenwood Valley ? 

Ja*.— Well, nothing in particular ; only, I heard him say there was 
no hope here for his affliction, and he was questioning in mind the 
influence of a Valparaiso climate, or the professional skill of Europe. 



38 VIOLETS; OR JASPER LUCKING S, 

Enter Alonzo, h((;/f/((rd loohinff. 

Al. {to JavTi).—kxe you in a hurry ? I won't detain you long, 

Jh. -I will listen, AIodzo. 

Al. — I am tliinking of making a trip to other climes and I may not 
return ; I hated to go, Jack, without bidding you an affectionate 
farewell. (Holdint/ out hand.) 

Jh. {takinr/ hand.) —Goodbye, Alonzo; I hope the change will be 
to your advantage, {TaJccfi seat and reads,) 

Enter Me e rill. 

Al. — l am fixing for a journey, and I wish yotr to transfer my 
account to the house of Wells Fargo, San Francisco, as soon as con- 
Yenient — say one week ; that's ample time for all checks, &c., to be 
settled. I will leave a power of attorney for you to collect some 
ranch rents, and snpesrintendency of my interest in the Gulch claim 
above Georgetown, and, perhaps, to do more. The business will all 
present itself at your office. Can you do this and extract remunera- 
tion without hindrance to other duties, and report monthly to head of 
firm ? 

Mer.—Ye^, sir. {Sits.) 

Al. — Landlord, T will be over in a little while. Will I find you 
here ? 

Jas.—Ye^ ; this is my little place of business, {exit Alonzo) Mr, 
Merrill, I presume I can slip this injunction bridle without ceremony, 

Mer.—Ye%, sir ; I am instructed — you to supersede. Do you wish 
to cancel the injunction ? 

Jas. — No. Slip no bridle until the mule is safe. 

Mer.—kh. \ {reflective, and e.vit.) 

JA-.— He's going. 

J(/.s.— Yes. 

Jlc, — Has he fixed the Gardener's business ? 

Jas. — No. 

jJc — Well, landlord, you have two hard games to plaj', and they 
both seem close at hand. I prefer being absent, for I would hate to 
see either one of them down you. I wish the Gardener was here, 

/(/.«?.— What two ? 

Jk. — Why, you certainly won't let Alonzo go taking his funds with- 
out squaring the Gardener, and this w^oman Ruth is clean gone on the 
Gardener. Oh, if you had seen her rave when I told her the part of 
our dialogue that intimated the Gardener had an ardent affection for a 
woman at home. She wept like a whipped child ; told me to begone. 



KAyCWK LANDLORD AND CALIFORNIA GARDENER 39 

and never approach her only as an ordinary acquaintance, and as for 
you, she blames, saying you are but a parcel of black deception, and, 
if I understand, she charges you with the Gardener's non-reciproca= 
tion. I tell you in her rage she looked the beautiful gazelle, except in 
the mildness of eye. Her hair floated, her bosom heaved, her eyes 
flashed diamonds, her countenance pallid, and her voice and tongue of 
shrill-toned irony. You will have a hard fight, I fear. 

Jas. — Let her fight, it won't last long. One can't fight much alone. 
Exit Jnck. Enter Ruth, excited. 

J^/.s'.— Why, Ruth, what's the matter ? [Lookiruj over hook coohf.) 

Rut. — Do not ask that question, sir, with such indifferent coolnessj 
But let me ask you by what right did you make me a ninny, in so much 
as to fall a dupe to your fallacious arguments ? I would have wagered - 
kingdoms, empires, yea, worlds, upon your honor toward me, and what 
would have been the result -tell me ? 

Jas. — (Gazing .silentli/.) 

Rut. — Why not answer ? Is your neck fevered within that you 
cannot cackle deception more, and me so foolish to allow your cackling 
to have more influence than the silver-tongued eloquence of a Webster 
or a Clay, for they could not have hushed me into the belief that your 
mature years contained nothing but forbiddance of my entreaties. 0> 
foolish woman that I was twice— once to hope so vainly, and then to 
be soothsaid by you into the belief that you looked upon me with the 
affection of a brother, and then to find out you have one at home for 
whom you possess an ardent affection. Will that stand divine criti- 
cism ? Surely you will think enough of me to answer. 

Jas. — Yes. 

Rut.— Yes what ? 

Jas. — Yes answer. 

Rut.— Then do answer. (Smoothinrj her hair.) If I can only get 
you to talk. Will you talk ? 

Jas, -Yes ; talk some when you get through. 

Rut. — I wish to know how you can act a brother's part and not 
have told me of this. 

Jas. — I would have told you had you asked. 

Rut. — Will you now ? 

Jas. — {Noddirtfj.) 

Rut. — Upon your own argument, are you so silly as to have ardent 
affection, as you said to me, in a short time a helpless old creature ? 
Don't you think if you should marry her sh'd rue ? 



40 VIOLETS; OR JASPER LUCKIXGS, 

Jas. — I don't think of marrying her. That would he silly. 

i^«^.— Why not ? 

Jas. — Why she is married, and got living husband. 

Rut. — And you love another man's wife ? 

J<(K. — Yes ; I can't help it. 

Rut. —For heaven's sake, do they live together ? 

Jas. — Yes. 

Rut. — How long have you known her ? 

Jas. —Many years. 

Rut —Did you have an affection for her when she married ? 

Jas. — Yes. 

Rut.—^ow, to bring this to a climax. Which will you do, cease 
to look upon me as a sister, or abandon the affection for this woman ? 

Jas. — It would be cruel to abandon her. 

Rut. -Why? 

Jas. — She is my sister. 

Km/.— What ! 

Jas. — She is my sister. 

Rut. — You are a riddle. Why do you want to torment me so ? 

Jds. — Ruth, try not fret at effect before learning the cause. 
Exit Ruth, houinfj, apparently pleased with explanation. 
Enter Alonzo. 

Al. — Ah, I find it as I wished. You are alone ? 

Jas. — Alone. 

Al. — May I ask you — 

Jas. — Hold ! I am tired being tossed aiound with questions. You 
should know there is a time and place when and where patience ceases 
to be a virtue. I know you are ill, and that has buoyed patience ; but 
try and condense. 

Al. — True; every word. Thanks for past patience; but will you 
endure me a little longer '? 

Jas. — I'll try. 

Al. — May I ask, through your life, what has made the strongest 
demand for nerve power to sustain you ? 

Jas. — I don't understand your question. 

.4/.— Do you know what nerve is? 

Jas. — I think so. 

Al. — Well, then, in all your combats of life, what did you have to 
exercise the most nerve in order to pull through ? 

Jas. {reflects a moment) — Combatting with poverty. 



KAXLWK FARMER AXB CALIFORXIA OARDEXER. 41 

AL — Did you ever feel nerve -weak through sudden and unexpected 
developments ? 

Jan. — I have felt it shake. 

At. -Can you be so unnerved as to lose your reason ? 

Jas. — 1 should hope no. 

Al. — I need not ask if you are honest ? 

Jan. — No, 

AL -Why? 

Jas, — There's nobody honest clean through, 

.4Z.— How is that ? 

Jas. —Well, some few you can't buy for money, but theyre sure to 
have some other darhng object. Find out that, put it on for bait> 
angle nice, — sure to get them. 

Al.~l have selected you in mind to assist me, I have wronged 
myself, in doing wrong to others, and a greater wrong, not to be dis- 
cussed here. First {takimj out ineniorandum and pencil), Nellie, in equity, 
owns Garden Ranch. It's a question, whether to assign the ranch, or 
give its equivalent in gold ? What do you think ? It's worth those 
figures {^lioiving). 

Jas. — Gold, deposited with Wells Fargo, as guardians, until mature 
age, is better for Nellie than the ranch, 

Al. — Miner's Ranch in equity belongs to Ruth and Eliza I thought 
perhaps if you understood their minds, we might decide whether ranch 
or gold for them, Ruth told me she wanted to hear no sound in repair- 
ing. Now the ranch or those figures, what do you think, sir ? 

Jas. - Their minds would say tliose figures in preference to the 
ranch. 

Al. — And this house is Nellie's. What do you say as to that — 
assign or gold ? 

Jas. — Gold ; so that if Nellie lives to mature age she will find it 
well done ; if don't live to go to nearest of kin. And let me suggest as 
Eliza is of age, the heir, Eliza, two-thirds, Ruth, the widow, one-third. 
Is that right ? 

Al — Yes, for it was Eliza's father I wronged. And now there are 
two more, Kentuck and Hoosier. Jack knows them ; they are reformed 
gamblers ; T think, living at Cherokee Ravine, Bute Co., $400 each ; and 
poor Jack, I owe him $910, it was a hold out when dividing. And now, 
sir, to save poor mortals the sin of judging me a hypocrite, will you 
allow me to make those checks to your order, and you give them due 
place ? 



42 VIOLETS; OR JASPER LUCKIKGS, 

jfts. No, you take those figures to Wells Farf^o's man MerrilL He 

will judge no hypocrite, fox he is sterling. You check to his order ; he 
to order and certify deposits to their individual credits as per list ; then 
ask him kindly to hand each their deposit receipts, not forgetting, the 
incorporated firm of Wells Fargo to be duly responsible as guardians 
for Nellie until &he arrives at the age of twenty-one, and in case she 
does not survive said age next of kin to inherit. Mr, Merrill will be 
only too happy to do this; as I said, he will contradict hypocrisy, 

^4/, —Thanks, I will go and give him list with instructions, 
after we discuss one more subject. And just let me say, our mutual 
understanding far exceeds my anticipations, for I feared your displea- 
sure upon knowing my crimes. 

j-^/,s', — This one more subject — is it amalgamated ^-ith those afore- 
mentioned ? 

jil^ — No, sir ; but it requires more nerve 

jas, — AH right. Then, first thing to be done, square those per 
list. Bear to me a line from Merrill, duly intimating, and then to the 
nerve case. 

j^l — I shall not be long. Oh, here is Mr. MerrilL Landlord, will 
you intimate to him ? [Giving Jasjjer the li»t.) 
Enter Merrill. 

/rt5. — See here, Mr. Merrill. Make check for the aggregate. [Mer- 
Till makes it in a second.) You understand the individuals and amounts ? 
{Merrill nods.) What do you understand for Nellie's safety, there ? 

3/^,',— The incorporated firm of Wells Fargo to be her guardian 
until she arrives at the age of twenty-one. Proviso : In case her non- 
surviving said age, all her's goes to her nearest of kin. 

Jas. {To Alonzo)— If that is right, sir, sign. {He signs. To Merrill) 
It is no harm for me to make intimation. You understand the aggre- 
gate to his debit, the individuals amounts, their deposits, and please 
give each their deposit receipt at earliest convenience. 

3/^,'. — In that true condensed form, it shall be done. 

Jas. -Now, sir {To Alonzo) we will approach, with your consent, 
the nerve case. Let bre\4ty rule, for I feel tired. {Merrill sit)> 
amazed.) 

Al. — I'll be brief as possible. Years ago I robbed a man ; once he 
was a gardener ; then he had an interest in the Big Crevice, on Mur- 
derer's Bar, middle fork of the American river, and kept saloon and 
trading post ; he was a friend to the boys and supposed I was to him ; 
he intended to go home next steamer ; he and I counted his money 



KAXCCK LAXDLORD AND CALIFORNIA GARDENER 43 
when the boys were all at supper ; I knew where he put it ; that night 
or early morn I covered him with a derringer and he sensibly gave up 
his home stake ; I fled and caused a false report that my body was 
found floating upon the Yuba above Marysville ; methinks I can see 
him now, as his countenance declared my villainy ; then the inward 
sorrow of being deprived of anticipated home-greetings, the vivid flashes 
of his mind portrayed upon his visage, I wish to God I could eradicate 
from memory. 

Jas. — Well, what next ? 

Al—I want to leave with you the amount and interest, and exer- 
cise all diligence to find him or his family and give it them. Don't 
say to have Wells Fargo do this, and until you .find this man or 
his family, the money is yours, and I will make it $1,000 more that 
you are to have at least, for I feel the value of your patience. Will 
you consent ? 

Jas. — To inquire successfully I should know his name. 

^Z.— That I cannoet definitely give. In early days few went by 
real name ; w^e used to call him Canada, the Gardener ; don't know 
whether his name was really Canada, or from that country ; Kit Welch 
knows, he may tell you, he is vexed at me ; Kit lives in 'Frisco, either 
at the Willows or Mission Dolores ; his business is faro bank. Now, 
will you do this ? 

Jas. — Yes; and I think I know him, he w^as from Canada. 

AL — Very good ; so much the better. Mr. Merrill, make check for 
^9,000, and $1,000 evtra. I believe he got a dividend that night from 
$9,000, and $1,000 extra. I believe he got a dividend that night from 
the Crevice Claim, after w^e counted the money, and no doubt it was 
all in. I did not count my ill-gotten gain, I merely turned it in. I 
wish I knew. 

Jas, — I know this man from Canada, and also the transaction. He 
did get a dividend of $800 after the acount, and it all went. 
Al. Is is possible ? Then, Mr. Merrill, make it $1,000 more. 
Jas. — No. I don't want a cent more than $9,000. But you mav 
give poor Old Joe, if you like, the $1,000, as a reward for his and 
Eachael's parental love for Nellie, the orphan. 

Al. — Mr. Merrill, make two checks, $i,000 each, for Joseph and 
Rachael, and give them. 

Mer. —There, sir, sign [he signs), for Jasper and the aggregate. 

AL — There, landlord, is the check for the Gardener, and when you 
see him, say for the best, and I hope he may get his own and that I 
may hear of it before I die. Exit Merrill. 



44 VIOLETS; OR JASPER LUCKING S, 

Jus. —Arm yourself with nerve, Alonzo. Here, before you die, 
your wish is gratified, for the Gardener has got his own {holding up check). 

Al. (StcKj'jers) — What do I hear ? What do you say ? {Excited.) 

Jus. — I say I am the Gardener, although changed. It was I that 
looked into the gun. 

AL — My God ! is it true ? It is, and I see it all. You were after 
your own, heard and listened to the widow's and orphan's lamenta- 
tions and risked for them. It is well done, and am I to be punished ? 
{Droppinij on knees ) 

Jfis. — Not by me ; up and go, seek happiness and health, or you 
may have to square the State attorney. 

AL — My trunks are packed and I'm waiting (all being done) for 

the stage, {lookiny at natch) and it is now due. {Seeming frustrated.) 

Good-by, sir. {Exit Alonzo, Jasper bowing and gazing after him queerly.) 

Joe, Rachael, Nellie, Ruth and Eliza all stand around Jasper ; seem 
excited. 

Joe. — Well, boss, ever since you told Rachael we would never see 
our child alive, after we got reconciled as well as we could, we clung 
to the hope that you could find her children, and I guess we can help 
you. It's so queer and mixed maybe you can explain when I tell you. 

Jas. — Joseph, what is it? 

Joe. — Rachael, you tell, because you say you must think nothing 
else only that Nellie is our Amy's child. 

Rac. — I must think so until I am better convinced ; circumstances 
declare it. 

Jas. — What circumstances, Rachael? 

i?</c.— Why, the innumerable little stories and anecdotes that she 
keeps constantly reciting that her mammy learned her that I believe 
originated at our own fireside, and only a little wh le ago she repeated 
a little special prayer that could only be the one I taught Amy when 
a child, and it so filled us all that we come to talk with you, hoping 
you might possibly make a revelation. Can you, and will you? 
Don't hesitate, fearing we might mourn unreasonabl5\ {Constantly 
smoothing Nellie's hair.) Stage horn blows in the distance for Alonzo. 

Joe.~]^o, boss, we will stand it like Christians. Won't we, Nellie? 
( With Rachael smoothing Nellie's hair.) 

Nel. — Yes, if it is so. I hope it is. Say, was mammy their girl ? 

Jas. — Y'es, Nellie. She was their daughter Amy. 

Nel. — Why, was mammy's name Annie? {Enter Merrill, looking 
excited). 



KAXUCK FARMER AND CALIFORXIA GARDENER. 45 

Mer. [rushimj stride) -Good news for everybody 

J (IS. —Mr. Merrill, please take a seat for a moment. {Mfnill sits 
do an., hut is so elated he gets up and listens eaijerly). 

Jas. — Now, Rpxhael, Joseph, Nellie and all Listen. This letter 
is faintly stamped, "Bayley's P.O.," ^vheu first mailed, and only short 
distance from Garden Ranch, where once Amy lived. When it arrived 
at Sacramento, by carelessness it was heavily stamped "Sacramento," 
obliterating Bayley's, for it nearly covers the original, and not being 
dated inside, Joseph and Rachael were led to think only of Sacramento. 
And, stronger proof still, here's this good old Bible [tiirnin(j to Jiahi!!/ 
record), Rachael and Joseph, do you know it ? See the record. 

Rae, (LooliitKj at it) - Oh, dear ! Yes, that is my writing. I wrote 
her name there, and I gave her that very book when going from home. 
True, true, {turning over leaf) and there is her child Nellie's name in 
Amy's writing. Oh, Nellie ! you were Amy's darling ! 

Joe. — Yes, and now she is our's. {Both kissing her.) 

Enter Jack. 

Jk. [Excited) — Alonzo's just off on the stage -took aheap of trunks. 
Did he square things for the Gardener '? Landlord, here's a letter for 
you from him. 

Jas. — Yes, Jack, he squared. 

JA:. — Glad to know it. He went into that stage as though he was 
being chased by Waukeen and Three-Fingered Jack, the greatest ban- 
dits of their day, and said give you that letter quick. 

Mer. - Jack, Alonzo left two small checks for Kentuck and Iloosier. 
He said you would tell their address. Do you know it ? 

Jk. — Yes, they live at Cherokee Ravine ; their P.O. is Bidwell's 
Bar, on Feather river, Bute county (excited). 

Nel. {all the time looking in Bihlr. to Jasjjcr) — Say, mammy's name 
in the Bible is Amy. I thought it was Annie ? 

Jas — I will explain that, Nellie, to all. Mr. Page, Nellie's father. 
when living, the first time he saw xVmy, it was love at sight It was 
in early days, - Fourth July dance, at Bayley's Ranch. He asked her 
hand for next quadrille. She consented, and wrote "Amy," less one 
stroke in letter m, upon the programme card. Hence, Any. He read 
it "Any," and danced and courted her as Any. But you see, from the 
record in Bible, of marriage, it's Amy. Nellie's father and I were part- 
ners in Garden Ranch when they married. I lived with them awhile 
after marriage, and as ht; fancied the name of Annie, niste.id of Amy, 
she indulged him, so she was better known as Annie. 



46 VIOLETS; OR JASPER LUCKING S, 

Xel. — I remember their laughing and talking about their first dance. 
Oh, dear, were you papa's partner in Garden Ranch ? 

Jus. - Yes, Nellie ; I located Garden Ranch. In early day, your pa 
and I kept cabin together. I sold him my interest and went river 
raining. 

A>Z. — Oh, I have often heard them ta^k of you. The old well is in 
the garden j^et, mammy said you made to irrigate. 

Jas . {Merrill hatidimj Jack pajter) — Mr. Goodman, there is conscience 
money from Alonzo, ^910 ; it was a hold-out when you were pards in 
game. 

Jk. - Thanks. He might have kept it But what do I hear, — you 
the Gardener, and call me Mr. Goodman? I thought you a represen- 
tative of the Gardener, and who told you my name is Goodman ? 

Jas,—Yes, I am the Gardener, and you are Mr. Goodman. Years 
ago, if you will remember, I kept employment office in Ophir — now 
Oroville. You left your name Tsdth me for a job ; said you went broke 
at the Magnolia and cursed the tiger, I placed you as steward at the 
Golden Gate restaurant The boys used to call you Silver -foot, 
because you were so slick. 

Jk. — Ah, I remember, and the boys used to call you Canada. Is 
it possible ? Kit Welch would give the world to see you — but stop a 
moment ; you have seen Kit have you not, and did I understand you 
that Alonzo squared you good ? 

Jas.— Yes, I saw Kit at the Willows, and Alonzo did fairly well 
with me ; amazing for the widow and orphan— gave nice pin money to 
Rachael and Joseph. Mr. Merrill, give these people to understand 
their financial position, I think the result of having patience with Al- 
onzo. {Opens the letter that Jack gave from Alonzo and reads to himself.) 

Mer, {Meads from paper)— "^he aggregate to all your credits in the 
house of Wells Fargo is S29,000, and to be distributed as follows : 

To Nellie Page, the orphan, ... ... $12,000 

" Miss Eliza Ferguson, ... ... 10,000 

" Mrs. Ruth Ferguson, ... ... 5,000 

" Rachael and Joseph Conners, each SI. 000, 2,000 

$29,000 
Get your deposit receipts on call. 

Jas. -This letter from Alonzo, per Mr. Goodman, is an assignment. 
Listen a moment. It's a question for us not to judge whether it's from 
conscience or from fear of being punished by State law ; but it's solid ; 
signed in his own hand-write and sealed : — 



KAKUCK LANDLORD AAW CALIFORNIA GARDENER 47 

To Canada, once called the Gardener, and now the Proprietor of the 
Kuth House: 

Sir — I assign all my right, title and interest into the hands of Wells 
Fargo, the Gulch Mining Claim, above Georgetown, for the benefit of 
Nellie Page, the orphan of William and Annie Page, the same idea to 
govern in this by said Wells Fargo as moneys heretofore mentioned 
from Garden Kanch. I defrauded said William Page out of said claim 
when undeveloped. In equity it is Nellie's, Don't sell, for it's a 
mint. Alonzo. 

Mer. —The Gulch Claim to be Nellie's ! There is only one richer 
in the state, and that is the Allison Quartz Lead, Grass Valley. Why, 
Alonzo never deposits from the Gulch less than thousands monthly, 
with very few men working, and there is ground enough to last for years. 

Jas. — Come here, Nellie {she comes to Mm.) Do you understand all 
this ? It is quite a contrast, this aLd the bun business. 

Nel. — Yes, sir. 

Rut. {To Jasper, raising bowed head) — Is this a dream, sir ? 

Jas. — Ruth, this is no fairy-like dream or Arabian Nights legend — 
it's truth. {Nellie raises Jasper's hand and kisses it.) 

Rac. — Yes, kiss the hand of our benefactor, {all bowing assent.) 

Jas.— I am only an instrument {all in line with due grace.) It is 
now growing late. Let's hie away to rest, remembering the language 
of violets. 

CURTAIN AND THE END. 




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